Ataxic gait

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Ataxic Gait (pronounced: uh-TAK-sik gate) is a type of abnormal walking pattern characterized by a lack of coordination and balance.

Etymology

The term "Ataxic" is derived from the Greek word "ataxia" meaning "lack of order," and "gait" refers to the manner of walking.

Definition

Ataxic gait is a clinical sign in many neurological disorders, particularly those involving damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain that regulates muscle coordination and balance. It is characterized by an unsteady, uncoordinated walk, with a wide base and a tendency to veer from side to side.

Symptoms

Symptoms of ataxic gait include:

  • Difficulty with balance and coordination
  • Wide-based walk
  • Veering from side to side
  • Difficulty with fine motor tasks
  • Difficulty with speech (dysarthria)

Causes

Ataxic gait can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ataxic gait involves a thorough neurological examination, including observation of the patient's walk. Further tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause, such as brain imaging (MRI or CT scan) or nerve conduction studies.

Treatment

Treatment of ataxic gait focuses on addressing the underlying cause. This may involve medication, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery. Assistive devices such as canes or walkers may also be helpful.

See also

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski