The Injury Hub

Gait Dysfunction & Abnormalities: Info, Symptoms & Treatment.

Our Chartered Physiotherapists across Ireland are experts in the causes, symptoms and treatment of gait abnormalities.

The Injury Hub: Gait Dysfunction & Abnormalities

About Gait Dysfunction & Abnormalities.

Gait, limp or walking pattern is a complex activity involving most parts of the body. Our gait varies according to our individual anatomy, our age and the speed at which we walk.

Gait abnormalities have been shown to predict functional decline in the elderly and are often the result of multiple causes.

Gait dysfunctions and abnormalities in the elderly often result in falls and disability. Other conditions that commonly see gait abnormalities include those with diseases such as Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy.

People walking in a park

How We Can Help.

Symptoms, Treatment & How Physiotherapy Can Help Your Recovery.

Learn about common gait dysfunction symptoms, effective treatments, and how our expert team supports your recovery journey every step of the way.

Pain, muscle weakness, joint stiffness and nervous system diseases can result in abnormal gait patterns. For a full list of Foot Related injuries please click here.

As we grow older there are many changes that can affect our walking ability.  These include our, strength, sensory functions, balance, range of movement, and flexibility.  All of these factors can result in compensatory responses and put a person at an increased risk of falls.

An antalgic gain is related to pain, where a person avoids certain movements. Typical features include: limited range, unable to weight bear, a limp, slower speed and shorter steps. This type of walking pattern is often seen as a result of trauma, Osteoarthritis and Pelvic girdle pain.

Gait and mobility are vital for the maintenance of a person’s independence. Research has shown that Physiotherapy interventions can improve balance and gait in the elderly and a variety of different diseases. Therefore, it is vital that you are assessed by a trained Physiotherapist, so that treatment can be commenced.

After assessing a person’s gait, our Chartered Physiotherapists will plan an individually tailored rehabilitation programme which may include activities to strengthen muscles, increase range of movement and relieve pain as well as providing walking re-education.

They will also advise and show the person how to use appropriate walking aids such as crutches, walking sticks and walking frames.

Physiotherapy is used to help a person learn how to walk again following a disease or injury or to keep them mobile if they have irreversible problems affecting their walking pattern. Research has shown that Physiotherapy can help a person improve their walking which can help a person increase or maintain their independence.

Our Physiotherapists have extensive clinical experience in gait analysis and in the treatment of foot conditions.

Our team of Chartered Physiotherapists also work with children with walking difficulties, such as those with cerebral palsy. They are all university educated and insured, so you know that you are in safe hands.

Our patient’s health journeys

CMM Coate
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Very good attention from Igor. He was professional and friendly and took the time to answer questions. I would certainly revisit Thank you.
Alice O
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The best deep tissue massage by Marcelo! Would definitely go again.
Linda C
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A very plesant and efficient physiotherapy service.
Kevin M
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Had a very positive experience. Had severe back pain and Dylan was able to see me at short notice. He was very thorough and clear in assessing and explaining my condition and structuring a recovery exercise program that worked very succesfully. I am now fully recovered and looking forward to being as active as I was before my injury.
Sonia F
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Really happy with the two appointments I had with Dylan Connelly to treat my calf strain. His approach was both professional and personable and he ensured that I was completely comfortable during all phases of the appointments. He explained and demonstrated the exercises in 'lay' terms and ensured that I understood and was happy with the approach and expected outcomes. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Amy B
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I met with Lisa on three occasions in relation to my hamstring and she was absolutely amazing! So easy to chat to and super informative. You need to book at least a week or two in advance to get a spot with her and it's no surprise. She's absolutely fantastic! He explained and demonstrated the exercises in 'lay' terms and ensured that I understood and was happy with the approach and expected outcomes. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Lisa O
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I went to Olga for 4 or 5 weeks before the marathon this year for hip pain. I was contemplating not running as my long run training had become so painful on the hip. Olga treated with dry needling and massage and over 2 sessions, I saw a big difference. I continued a weekly session to keep me loose and followed her exercise plan. I completed the marathon with no hip issues and felt like my recovery after was a lot faster than previous years.
Margaret C
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Myself and my mother attended Craig for 3 sessions - he is expert at what he does, so understanding, gentle and kind. Great personality and a really skilled physio. Would recommend him absolutly without reservation.He explained and demonstrated the exercises in 'lay' terms and ensured that I understood and was happy with the approach and expected outcomes. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Patrick M
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I had a painful trapped nerve in my neck which caused pain together with pins and needles running into my arm and hand. I attended Mohammed twice over a period of two weeks. It completely resolved after second appointment. Mohammed is an expert professional at what he does. I would highly recommend his services. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
Lauren T
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I can only recommend Dr. Muhammed Sohail. I’ve been to many physio consultants and he’s been the very best so far: dry needling has improved my IT band issues so much over two sessions including my knee pain. I would definitely recommend Dylan for any physio needs.
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How Much Does It Cost?

Please refer to our individual clinic location pages for pricing information.

Monday – Friday: 8am to 8pm

Saturday: 9am to 5pm

Sunday: Closed

*Please note, opening times can vary between clinics

This service is available in any of our nationwide clinics.

We work with all major insurers – Vhi, Laya and Irish Life. We recommend you check your own policy for its terms and conditions to see what cover you have.

Our Patient Services team is available to help you Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm, and Saturdays from 8:00am to 4:00pm.

Call Us: 01 611 1740

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