Which feature is most characteristic of Parkinsonian gait?

Which feature is most characteristic of Parkinsonian gait?

• A. Bradykinesia with small, shuffling steps
• B. Wide base and variable foot placement
• C. Circumduction of the leg
• D. Toe walking

Answer: (A)

Parkinsonian gait is defined by slowness of movement with reduced stride length, producing a small, shuffling steps pattern. This bradykinesia reflects impaired initiation and amplitude of movement due to loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway, which causes the gait to be slow, with a stooped posture and diminished arm swing. Over time, steps become increasingly short, and patients may exhibit festination, where they take quicker, shorter steps to keep moving. This distinctive quiet, compact pacing helps separate it from other gait patterns. For example, a wide base with variable foot placement points to cerebellar ataxia; circumduction of the leg is more typical of neurologic weakness or hemiparesis; toe walking is seen in pediatric conditions or certain neuropathies.

Parkinsonian gait is defined by slowness of movement with reduced stride length, producing a small, shuffling steps pattern. This bradykinesia reflects impaired initiation and amplitude of movement due to loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway, which causes the gait to be slow, with a stooped posture and diminished arm swing. Over time, steps become increasingly short, and patients may exhibit festination, where they take quicker, shorter steps to keep moving. This distinctive quiet, compact pacing helps separate it from other gait patterns. For example, a wide base with variable foot placement points to cerebellar ataxia; circumduction of the leg is more typical of neurologic weakness or hemiparesis; toe walking is seen in pediatric conditions or certain neuropathies.