Certain disorders of motor function manifest themselves most clearly as impairments of upright stance and locomotion. Their evaluation depends on knowledge of the neural mechanisms underlying these peculiarly human functions. The analysis of stance, carriage, and gait is a particularly rewarding medical exercise. With some experience, the examiner can sometimes reach a neurologic diagnosis merely by noting the manner in which the patient enters the office. Considering the frequency of falls that result from gait disorders and their consequences, such as hip fracture, and the resultant need for hospital and nursing home care, this is an important subject for all physicians. So, I will review the
physiological and biomechanical aspects of gait, anatomical aspects of gait, history and common symptoms of gait disturbance, examination of posture and walking, and physical signs and specific patterns of gait disorders.
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