Adopting a new gait

Adopting a new gait

'Normal' walking is a movement that normally occurs almost automatically. However, in people with Parkinson's, the autopilot is often disturbed, which can make walking more difficult. By adopting a new gait pattern (for example, in which the knees are lifted up higher), other 'motor programs' are started in the brain, which are often less automatic. In this way, the autopilot can be ‘bypassed’.

Examples of alternative gait patterns

Below are some examples of alternative gait patterns that you may want to try on your own - or with your therapist. The adopting a new gait page also offers videos of people using new walking patterns to improve gait.

• Raise the knees

• Exaggerate your arm swing

• Take excessively large steps

• Walk sideways

• Walk backwards

• Make skating movements

• Scissors the legs

• Dribble with a basketball

• Play football

• Climb stairs 

• Walk with wider steps

• Walk with feet turned more in or out than usual

• Slide feet across a smooth surface

• Dance

• March

• Walk on tiptoes or heels

• Hop or jump

• Run or jog

Do you have anything to add?

Are you using an alternative gait pattern that is not yet included in our overview? We'd appreciate it if you would submit your compensation strategy so that other people can benefit from your creative find!