[Analysing gait in the GP's consulting room]

Gait disorders are often seen in the general practitioner (GP)'s consulting room. Orthopaedic or neurological problems may lead to abnormalities in gait. A careful analysis is important to advice or refer the patient for additional diagnostics or treatment. Basic gait analysis can be performed on any patient by applying a systematic stepwise observation. This is illustrated here by three case reports. This observation starts by looking at parameters such as walking speed, safety, efficiency etc. Analysis of biomechanical pattern such as step frequency, stride length and a detailed analysis of the different joint movements during the stance and swing phase can subsequently be performed. This observation will be helpful for the GP, guiding further examinations of function level such as mobility, strength, or balance and resulting in adequate advice to the patient or referral for additional diagnostics or treatment.