Gait is the pattern of limb movements, both upper and lower, that are made during locomotion (walking and running). These movements are either done naturally or with the aid of specialized training received from a physical therapist. Accounting for approximately 17% of falls in older adults, gait dysfunctions can cause changes to normal walking patterns and crucial muscles or joints. While there are many different types of gait dysfunctions, common classifications include:
• Anatalgic,
• Cerebellar Ataxia,
• Parkinsonian,
• Steppage,
• Vestibular Ataxia,
• and Waddling.
Due to the fact that they can cause a rippling effect leading to other illnesses, such as heart disease or osteoporosis, it is important to seek therapy called Gait Training as soon as issues with walking or running become persistent. Gait training focuses on strengthening muscles and joints, building endurance, improving overall balance, posture, and muscle memory, and retraining legs for repetitive motion to regain independence while walking, running, or standing. The type, duration, and intensity of your gait training will depend on your specific diagnosis and physical capabilities.
During the initial assessment, a physical therapist will begin by going over the patient’s medical history and documenting their symptoms. They will ask specific questions in order to properly diagnose the type of gait dysfunction and to determine if there are any underlying medical conditions. During the physical evaluation the physical therapist may use multiple strategies to learn more about the patient’s condition including:
• observation of gait pattern,
• measurement of gait speed,
• balance test to assess risk of fall,
• measuring strength and range-of-motion of joints and muscles,
• and screening for reflex and sensation.
Brooklyn Body Works Physical Therapy is staffed with a professional and caring team of experts with clinical experience in utilizing Gait Training. Browse through our physical therapist profiles to learn how they can help you with restoring functionality.
If you are someone who may have an underlying illness or disability hindering your mobility, Gait Training may be able to help. If you are unable to or have difficulty walking or running, it is one of the first options to try to increase mobility as increasing activity can help to protect you from a more crippling sedentary lifestyle and prevent illnesses such as heart disease or blood clots. With the proper treatment plan in place, the repetitive motions of Gait Training will reeducate muscles and joints to become stronger and result in strengthened muscle memory. Over time you will build your endurance, improve balance, and correct your posture.
Gait Training can include techniques or exercises such as:
Brooklyn Body Works Physical Therapy began as an idea to bring the highest quality physical therapy to all people in our community. We wanted to offer the best that NYC has in health care while not marginalizing people based on socioeconomic boundaries (race, income, language, religion, etc). We offer a “concierge style service” and continue to accept many commercial insurances, medicare and even medicaid policies.
Since this is a physical therapy session which will require a physical examination and therapeutic exercise (varies by patient), we ask all our patients to come prepared. Please come dressed in loose fitted clothing that will allow for easy mobility, comfort, and access to the area of complaint. In addition we recommend sneakers with soles that grip to prevent slips or falls.
The need for a referral depends on what type of insurance you have. Most insurance plans do not require one, however some insurances do. For example, if you have HIP, you will need a referral from your primary care physician. We ask that you check to see what your health insurance plan requires prior to your initial visit. If you are unsure, please contact our front office and we’ll do our best to determine whether or not you require a referral.
To get in contact with us, click on the following link to view information pertaining to each office.
Each patients case and diagnosis is unique and requires the development of an individualized plan of care. Your physical therapist will give you an estimate of the number of sessions needed to reach a level of “feeling better”, during your initial evaluation.
Over time the number of visits may increase or decrease from the initial estimate, based on the progress made.
Brooklyn Body Works Physical Therapy accepts many of the available major insurance plans as well as alternate payment options, including cash/self-pay, to make our services accessible and affordable. Please visit the link below to view all information pertaining to Payment Options.
