ABSTRACT
Walking is a complex action that requires control of trunk posture, balance and stepping. In many instances, the overall pattern of a gait disorder will offer many diagnostic clues. In others, where the abnormality is less obvious, the initial examination should be directed at determining whether the problem lies with one of the three fundamental requirements of locomotion (postural control, balance, and the maintenance and appropriate scaling of stepping) or whether involuntary movements, muscle weakness, sensory loss or other factors such as joint disease or pain are responsible. This chapter discusses a clinical approach to the examination of gait and posture and emphasizes those symptoms and signs that provide clues to the underlying neurological diagnosis.
