gait disorder, an abnormality in the manner or style of walking that results in an inconsistent flow of ambulation. Gait disorders usually result from neuromuscular, arthritic, or other body changes. The body’s center of gravity may change over the years, causing a change in the degree of knee flexion needed to maintain one’s balance when walking. Some individuals with neuromuscular disorders walk with a shuffling gait or move with lurching actions. At times a gait disorder may be the result of a medication that causes confusion or loss of coordination or an eye or ear disturbance that affects the sense of balance.
