What should you do if you start having trouble walking?

Reviewed by Tomas Diaz, MD

Emergency Medicine

If you begin having trouble walking, consult a doctor or healthcare professional who can determine the cause. This will ensure you receive appropriate help and guidance.

Explanation

Many conditions can affect walking ability, which is why getting evaluated by a doctor is important. Changes in how you walk might signal issues with your brain, muscles, or joints. Your doctor may recommend tests to find the root cause and then prescribe treatments like medication or physical therapy. Acting early can keep small problems from becoming serious ones. Speak with a healthcare provider so they can consider your specific case.

(References)

Hawkins KA, Clark DJ, Balasubramanian CK, Fox EJ. Walking on uneven terrain in healthy adults and the implications for people after stroke. NeuroRehabilitation. 2017;41(4):765-774. doi: 10.3233/NRE-172154. PMID: 28946584; PMCID: PMC5845824.
Neufeld S, Machacova K, Mossey J, Luborsky M. Walking Ability and Its Relationship to Self-Rated Health in Later Life. Clin Gerontol. 2013 Jan;36(1):17-32. doi: 10.1080/07317115.2012.731477. PMID: 25568590; PMCID: PMC4283213.
Smith RB III. Claudication. In: Walker HK, Hall WD, Hurst JW, editors. Clinical Methods: The History, Physical, and Laboratory Examinations. 3rd edition. Boston: Butterworths; 1990. Chapter 13. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235/

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