Trendelenburg gait
Pronunciation: TREN-del-en-burg
Abnormal walking pattern where the pelvis drops on the unaffected side during stance phase due to hip abductor weakness.
Full Definition
Trendelenburg gait is an abnormal walking pattern characterized by pelvic drop on the unaffected side during the stance phase of gait. This occurs due to weakness or dysfunction of the hip abductor muscles (primarily gluteus medius and minimus) on the stance leg. In pediatric orthopedics, this gait pattern may be observed in conditions such as developmental dysplasia of the hip, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, or neuromuscular disorders. The gait abnormality results from the inability of the weakened abductors to maintain pelvic level during single-limb stance, causing the pelvis to tilt toward the unsupported side.
Usage
Usage note: Specify which side demonstrates the weakness and document associated clinical findings.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated a positive Trendelenburg gait indicating possible hip abductor weakness secondary to DDH." — pediatric hip examination
- "Trendelenburg gait may persist following surgical treatment of hip dysplasia until abductor strength is restored." — post-operative rehabilitation plan