In Parkinson's disease, which gait pattern is most characteristic?

In Parkinson's disease, which gait pattern is most characteristic?

• A. Festinating gait
• B. Waddling gait
• C. Steppage gait
• D. Shuffling gait

Answer: (D)

Parkinson’s gait is driven by bradykinesia and rigidity, which alter how the feet and limbs move with each step. The most characteristic pattern is a shuffling gait: steps are small and short, with a gradual reduction in stride length and a tendency to drag the feet forward. The body often tilts slightly forward with reduced arm swing and a stooped posture, all of which contribute to instability and a hesitant start to walking. As the person tries to move, steps can become rapid and repeated in a forward-leaning sequence—a phenomenon known as festination. This combination of small, quick steps, forward propulsion, and limited arm movement is the hallmark feature of the PD gait. Other patterns point to different problems (for example, steppage gait from foot drop, or waddling gait from hip weakness) and don’t capture the characteristic Parkinsonian speed and cadence of stepping.

Parkinson’s gait is driven by bradykinesia and rigidity, which alter how the feet and limbs move with each step. The most characteristic pattern is a shuffling gait: steps are small and short, with a gradual reduction in stride length and a tendency to drag the feet forward. The body often tilts slightly forward with reduced arm swing and a stooped posture, all of which contribute to instability and a hesitant start to walking. As the person tries to move, steps can become rapid and repeated in a forward-leaning sequence—a phenomenon known as festination. This combination of small, quick steps, forward propulsion, and limited arm movement is the hallmark feature of the PD gait. Other patterns point to different problems (for example, steppage gait from foot drop, or waddling gait from hip weakness) and don’t capture the characteristic Parkinsonian speed and cadence of stepping.