gait apraxia
A neurological condition where patients lose the ability to walk normally despite having no motor weakness, sensory loss, or cerebellar dysfunction.
Full Definition
Gait apraxia is a higher-order motor disorder characterized by the inability to properly sequence and coordinate walking movements despite intact motor strength and sensation. Patients typically exhibit a magnetic gait where feet appear stuck to the floor, wide-based stance, and difficulty initiating steps. This condition is commonly associated with normal pressure hydrocephalus, frontal lobe lesions, and subcortical white matter disease. Unlike other movement disorders, the deficit is in the planning and execution of complex walking patterns rather than basic motor function.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with ataxic gait, but gait apraxia specifically involves impaired motor planning rather than coordination problems.
In Context
- "The neuropsychological report noted that the patient's gait apraxia was inconsistent with her preserved lower limb strength on manual muscle testing." — Neuropsychological assessment report
- "Given the presence of gait apraxia alongside cognitive decline, normal pressure hydrocephalus was considered in the differential diagnosis." — Clinical consultation note