Gait disorders in the elderly. Distinguishing between normal and dysfunctional gaits.

Normal gaits in the elderly population vary widely. Characteristics of normal and abnormal gaits often overlap, making diagnosis of ambulation disorders difficult in some patients. Abnormal gaits are usually caused by musculoskeletal and/or neurologic abnormalities, which can be readily identified in the clinical setting. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment may save an elderly patient from immobility, fall-related injury, loneliness, and depression.