You may not think much about the way you walk, as it feels almost automatic. But something as simple as your gait can give clues about what is happening inside your body. We asked a specialist about what kind of problems your walk can reveal. Dr Shuvendu Prosad Roy, additional director of orthopaedics and spine surgery at Fortis Hospital, simplified what your walking pattern may reveal about your health.
But first, how can walking reveal a health problem in the first place? It turns out that walking depends on several systems working together: Dr Roy mentioned the muscles, joints, bones , nerves, heart, and lungs. Certain changes in the way you walk may signal problems affecting the musculoskeletal system. These changes can include limping, taking shorter steps, restricting movements at the hip or knee, or placing more weight on one leg. Arthritis, spinal problems, previous injuries and muscle weakness can all alter gait. Abnormal walking mechanics can also increase stress on the knees, hips, feet and lower back, potentially worsening pain and joint wear. If you have balance and coordination problems, such as frequently stumbling, swaying, having difficulty turning, or developing a growing fear of falling, they may be associated with sensory problems or neurological disorders, as per the orthopaedic surgeon. He also warned that changes in walking may point to broader health issues. Abnormal changes in gait could be linked to cardiovascular or respiratory problems. Reduced walking capacity or unusual fatigue while walking should be medically evaluated. The most important thing is to notice whether someone’s walk has changed from their usual patterns. Check these signs: Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Therefore, any change in walking speed, stride, balance, or coordination may indicate that one or more of these systems is affected.
Dr Roy said, “From an orthopaedic perspective, a limp, shorter steps, reduced movement at the hip or knee, or an increasing tendency to favour one leg may point towards joint, muscle or bone problems. “Conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord or peripheral nerves—including Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders—can produce characteristic changes in walking,” he added.
