Clinical signs in functional (psychogenic) gait disorders: a brief survey

Clinical signs are critical in ascertaining the functional nature of a gait disorder. Four signs of gait impairment have been documented in the course of examining patients with clinically definite functional (psychogenic) movement disorders: "huffing and puffing" during standing and walking, manipulation-resistance dorsiflexion of the first toe, fixed plantar flexion and inversion, and marked discrepancy between ambulation with and without swivel chair assistance. While large studies are needed to ascertain their prevalence, sensitivity, and specificity, the identification of these signs may help elevate the diagnostic certainty of functional gait disorders.