Gait

Gait, or walking pattern, is a complex activity involving most parts of the body. Our gait varies according to our individual anatomy, our age and whether the walking is fast or slow

Physiotherapy is used to help a person learn how to walk again following a disease or injury, or to keep them mobile if they have irreversible problems affecting their walking pattern.

Pain, muscle weakness, joint stiffness and nervous system diseases can result in abnormal gait patterns. The physiotherapist also works with children with walking difficulties, such as those with cerebral palsy. After assessing a person's gait, the physiotherapist plans an individually tailored rehabilitation programme which may include activities to strengthen muscles, increase range of movement and relieve pain as well as providing walking re-education. They also show the person how to use appropriate walking aids such as crutches and walking frames.