Walking Problems: What Causes Them And Makes Them Worse
Walking problems can be the result of a range of factors, including genetics, diseases, or injuries. Since efficient mobility is key to independence, it’s very important to seek professional advice if you have a walking abnormality. Don’t despair, as there’s lots that can be done to address ambulatory issues.
Fairview Rehab & Nursing Home in Queens NY offers outpatient and inpatient physical therapy to tackle walking problems. Some of our patients are unsteady on their feet or have balance and gait issues. Our friendly team of therapists motivates you and gets you mobile again before you know it.
Our large outpatient and inpatient rehabilitaion therapy area has state-of-the-art equipment, including bionic leg machines, to aid your recovery.
Causes of walking problems in adults
Walking abnormalities can be temporary or longer-term depending on the causes. Temporary causes of gait difficulties in adults include surgery, cuts, bruises, and fractured bones. Longer-term problems may be due to diseases that affect the spine, legs, brain, or nerves.
Long-term walking difficulties may be caused by birth defects, arthritis, leg injuries, or inflammation of the tendons. Walking difficulties among adults can also be caused by infections that damage tissues in the legs.
Sometimes the cause may be neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy. Problems with the inner ear can also cause balance, and consequently walking, problems.
Causes of walking difficulties in the elderly
Gait abnormalities are not uncommon in the elderly who tend to suffer more from ailments that inhibit free mobility. These may include balance impairment, muscle weakness, obesity as well as chronic diseases such as diabetes or arthritis. A sedentary lifestyle with low levels of physical activity can also make elderly walking problems worse.
Common risk factors for seniors include diseases or injuries affecting the muscles, bones, or nerves of the legs. Problems with the feet, such as corns or bunions, can also restrict mobility and lead to uncontrollable walking patterns and problems.
Why do I keep tripping when I walk?
Tripping is a common problem in adults and seniors who frequently tend to stumble or fall when walking. It could be due to a muscular weakness that makes it difficult to lift the front part of the foot.
This could also be due to nerve damage in the leg, or a brain or spinal injury. Equally it could be related to degenerative changes in the inner ear, often caused, for instance, by Alzheimer’s.
Fairview Rehab and Nursing Home in Queens NY seeks to educate patients and restore their mobility to the greatest possible extent through physical therapy. For patients recovering from spinal injuries or major surgeries, we carry out advanced mobility training. We deliver the care you or your loved ones need to overcome walking problems.
Do contact us if you would like to find out more about our rehabilitation therapies that we provide in Forest Hills in New York. Feel free to ask any questions you may have. Our admissions team is here to answer any concerns you may have.
This article contains informational and educational materials and does not replace health or medical advice. For questions or concerns regarding your medical condition or health objectives, speak to a qualified physician or healthcare provider.
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