Parkinsonian gait
Parkinsonian Gait
Parkinsonian gait (/pɑːrˈkɪnsəniən ɡeɪt/), also known as festinating gait, is a distinctive walking pattern associated with Parkinson's disease. It is characterized by small, shuffling steps, a stooped posture, and difficulty initiating or controlling movements. The term "Parkinsonian" refers to its association with Parkinson's disease, and "gait" refers to the manner of walking.
Etymology
The term "Parkinsonian" is derived from the name of Dr. James Parkinson, who first described the symptoms of the disease in 1817. The term "gait" comes from the Old English "gæte," meaning "way, path, or manner of walking."
Characteristics
Parkinsonian gait is characterized by several distinctive features:
- Bradykinesia: This term, meaning "slow movement," describes the overall slowness of movement seen in Parkinsonian gait. Bradykinesia is a hallmark symptom of Parkinson's disease.
- Shuffling steps: Individuals with Parkinsonian gait often take small, shuffling steps. This is sometimes referred to as a "shuffling gait."
- Festination: This term refers to the tendency to move faster and with smaller steps as the person walks. It is often associated with a forward-leaning posture.
- Freezing of gait: This is a temporary, involuntary inability to move, often experienced when starting to walk or when turning corners.
Related Terms
- Parkinson's disease: A neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement control. Parkinsonian gait is one of its characteristic symptoms.
- Bradykinesia: A general reduction in the speed of voluntary movements, often seen in Parkinson's disease.
- Festination: A common feature of Parkinsonian gait, characterized by an increase in the speed of walking with a simultaneous decrease in stride length.
- Freezing of gait: A symptom often associated with Parkinson's disease, characterized by a temporary inability to move.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Parkinsonian gait
- Wikipedia's article - Parkinsonian gait
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