Need help managing a gait disorder?
Try physical therapy in Bellaire, Stafford or Sugar Land, TX!
Have you noticed that you can’t seem to get rid of your limp since rolling your ankle? Do you find that the more your back hurts, the worse your gait becomes? We walk differently for various reasons, most of which can be resolved with physical therapy at Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness in Bellaire, Stafford and Sugar Land, TX!
Gait is defined as a person’s walking pattern. Walking requires precise timing and coordination of muscles, joints, and nerves in order for the body to propel forward rhythmically. Our stride differs from person to person based on height, weight, health status, and even culture.
An abnormal gait can be caused by a variety of factors. Some common causes include:
- Joint degeneration/arthritis
- Neurological conditions (i.e., Parkinson’s, degenerative nerve diseases, stroke, etc.).
- Vestibular disorders/vertigo
- Injuries to the spine and/or lower extremity
- Muscle disorders (i.e., weakness, muscle wasting associated with age)
Nobody wants to walk in pain or with shakiness. Fortunately, the physical therapists at Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness are experts at identifying and treating common gait-related conditions. We will provide you with the tools you need to regain your walking ability and get back to doing what you enjoy!
Make a physical therapy appointment with our Bellaire, Stafford or Sugar Land, TX office today. Our gait disorders specialty services can help you improve your quality of life!
What exactly is a gait disorder?
Gait abnormalities are changes in your walking and running patterns caused by irregular motions. Minor issues, such as foot problems or wearing ill-fitting shoes, can disrupt our normal gait and potentially lead to dysfunction and the development of a gait disorder.
Gait disorders are extremely common in the adult population, with studies revealing that more than 60% of people over the age of 80 have a gait disorder. Balance, shuffling, frequent falls, staggering, and freezing in place are all symptoms of gait disorders.
Our gait can be affected by neurological or non-neurological causes. The following are the most common causes:
- Neurological conditions (i.e., sensory or motor impairments)
- Orthopedic problems (i.e., osteoarthritis, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, and other skeletal deformities)
- Medical conditions (i.e., heart failure, respiratory insufficiency, peripheral arterial occlusive disease, and obesity)
These abnormalities may worsen with age, but changes in gait can occur at any age. Fortunately, our physical therapists are experts at determining the root cause of your problems and will address all of the factors preventing you from walking normally.
See How Sterling Physical Therapy Has Helped Others Find Back Pain Relief With Physical Therapy.
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“In 2009, I was diagnosed with a bulging disc in my lower back and arthritis. At that time, I was in constant pain and whenever I tweaked my back I would be unable to walk for a week to two weeks at a time. My back doctor recommended physical therapy which I had never been…
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Lori M.
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“My insurance covered for neck and back pain so I found Sterling Physical Therapy through my insurance provider. The physical therapist who did my assessment was EXCELLENT and then I never saw her again. I had a physical therapy assistant who was pretty good for one day but it was his last day on the…
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Renee L.
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“I highly recommend Sterling Physical Therapy in Houston. My experience has been fantastic. I went in with upper back pain and neck pain and they listened and helped me every step of the way. I’m seeing results and feel confident in their therapy plan for me. Valencia is by far the best physical therapist I’ve…
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Melissa R.
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“I have absolutely loved having Adrianna and Alain as my physical therapist. I have had a long term back injury and with the two of them assisting me with physic therapy I have had a lot less pain and I can tell that I am on my way to healing. It has been a great…
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Mia A.
What factors contribute to gait disorders?
A problem with your balance or gait may be caused or exacerbated by underlying medical conditions or orthopedic and neurological issues. Fortunately, our Bellaire, Stafford and Sugar Land, TX physical therapy clinic can assist you in regaining function and correcting your gait.
The following are some of the most common causes of gait problems:
Mobility work
Orthopedic Disorders and Injuries
Medical Issues
Physical therapy in Bellaire, Stafford and Sugar Land, TX can help you recover from gait disorders!
One of the most effective treatments for all gait disorders is physical therapy. When you arrive for your first appointment at Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness, our physical therapists will conduct a thorough assessment.
Our physical therapist will examine your entire body to determine the factors that are contributing to your condition. We will include a range of motion and strength tests for your joints. We will also perform movement screenings to determine how your body moves in specific patterns, such as your gait pattern.
Your evaluation results will guide your personalized treatment plan. We will tailor our strategy to meet your specific needs. Our physical therapists commonly use the following techniques and exercises.
Mobility work
Strengthening Exercises
Gait Retraining Exercises
Balance and Coordination Drills
Use of Assistive Devices
For assistance with gait disorders, contact Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness.
Do you have trouble walking normally? If this is the case, it is crucial that you seek assistance! Our Bellaire, Stafford and Sugar Land, TX physical therapists can show you the most effective ways to improve your walking abilities, allowing you to get back to doing what you love as soon as possible!
To find the relief you’ve been looking for, make an appointment with Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness today. Please call us at (281) 240-3140.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free
