|
Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 18e
| Part 2. Cardinal Manifestations and Presentation of Diseases > Section 3. Nervous System Dysfunction > |
Chapter 24. Gait and Balance Disorders
Sections: Gait and Balance Disorders: Introduction, Further Readings.
Topics Discussed: gait disorder; impairment of balance.
Excerpt:"Gait and balance problems are common in the elderly and contribute to the risk of falls and injury. Gait disorders have been described in 15% of individuals older than age 65 years. By age 80 years, one person in four will use a mechanical aid to assist ambulation. Among those 85 and older, the prevalence of gait abnormality approaches 40%. In epidemiologic studies, gait disorders are consistently identified as a major risk factor for falls and injury.The term cautious gait is used to describe the patient who walks with an abbreviated stride and lowered center of mass, as if walking on a slippery surface. This disorder is both common and nonspecific. It is, in essence, an adaptation to a perceived postural threat. There may be an associated fear of falling. In one study, this disorder was observed in more than one-third of older patients with a higher level gait disturbance. Physical therapy often improves walking to the degree that follow-up observation may reveal a more specific underlying disorder.Slipping on icy pavement, tripping on obstacles, and falls related to obvious environmental factors are often termed mechanical falls. They occasionally occur in healthy individuals with good balance compensation. Frequent tripping..."
The content above is only an excerpt.
For full access, log into an existing user account below,
purchase an annual subscription, or
purchase a short-term subscription to the complete website.
|
|
|
|
Or
|
|
|
|