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Neurologic disorders of gait
1Department of Neurology (127), VA Medical Center, Brigham and Women's Hospital, 150 South Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02130, USA. LSudarsky@partners.org
Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports
|March 20, 2002
Summary
Gait disorders affect many, especially older adults, increasing fall risks. This review covers neural control of walking, disorder classification, and recent treatments like botulinum toxin and new rehabilitation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Gait disorders are prevalent, particularly in the elderly, leading to significant fall and injury risks.
- Understanding the neural networks controlling locomotion and balance is crucial for addressing these disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the classification and etiology of common gait disorders.
- To highlight recent advancements in the treatment and management of gait disturbances.
Main Methods:
- Review of neural network organization for locomotion and balance.
- Classification of gait disorders by observational features and etiology.
- Discussion of specific common gait disorders.
Main Results:
- Recent therapeutic progress includes botulinum toxin for spastic gait in cerebral palsy.
- Neurosurgical interventions show promise for Parkinson's disease-related gait issues.
- Novel rehabilitation techniques enhance gait and balance training.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of gait disorders requires understanding their classification and underlying causes.
- Emerging treatments offer new hope for improving mobility and reducing fall risk in affected populations.