$Unique_ID{BRK01412}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{Is Peculiar Walk a Natural Result of Aging?}
$Subject{walk gait aging}
$Volume{M-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is Peculiar Walk a Natural Result of Aging?


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QUESTION:  I had to stop just to laugh when I walked behind our group of women
on our daily walk.  We are all of an age, between 71 and 83.  It was just like
a group of ducks were waddling down the avenue.  We all seem to have the same
peculiar walk, yet none of us is particularly ill.  Is this a natural result
of aging?  We would like very much to know.

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ANSWER:  I doubt that anyone is comparing you with ducks.  Just look around
you and you will find all kinds of peculiar gaits, as people hustle to and fro
where ever they are going.  But your observations are correct, we do change
the way we get about as we age.  Our steps become smaller, more cautious, and
we place our feet a bit wider apart for balance.  A stooped posture, and a
diminished arm swing, along with a bent position of the knees and hips
complete the picture.  Its more difficult to start to walk, and its harder to
turn easily.  The fact is, it is generally called a "senile gait" but you
don't have to be senile to walk that way.  Although doctors are not sure of
the exact cause, it probably is produced by a number of factors that come on
with normal aging, including changes in our brains, the central nervous system
as well as the nerves that go out to all parts of the body, as well as changes
in bones, muscles and joints.  Except for an added risk of falling, it is
generally a mild condition, and not disabling.  Walking is great exercise for
us all, so keep on with your walks.  And don't worry about the way you look,
but be just be a bit more careful to avoid tripping.  That way you may enjoy
all the benefits of your daily exercise with none of the risks.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
