What should you do if you start having trouble walking?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Trouble walking can stem from many causes, including neurological conditions, joint problems, muscle weakness, inner ear issues, or side effects of medication. If you notice a sudden or gradual change in your ability to walk, it's important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional promptly. A proper evaluation ensures you receive an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and clear guidance on next steps to protect your mobility and overall health.

Not sure where to start? Understanding your symptoms is the first step toward getting the right care. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify possible causes of your walking difficulty, gauge urgency, and prepare for a more productive conversation with your doctor. It takes just a few minutes—and could make a meaningful difference in how quickly you find answers.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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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. If you're experiencing changes in your walking ability, you can start by using a free symptom checker to better understand potential causes before your appointment. 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: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK235/

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