Gait training is teaching a person how to maximize their ability to walk safely. It includes several components of walking that most of us take for granted. In no particular order, gait training includes aspects of simply standing, balance, posture, weight shifting, coordinating certain movements, vision (where applicable), and confidence.
Therapists can instruct in safe ambulation on a variety of surfaces such as over gravel or grass, up and down stairs, on inclines, and throughout the home.
Gait training can also include caregiver training to assist someone with safe ambulation as in many cases, caregivers have to assist seniors to walk to the bathroom, up and down stairs, in and out of the car, etc. Helping seniors walk better is essential to maintaining their independence.
If you or a loved one has experienced an injury or disease that makes it difficult to get up and move around, a doctor typically prescribes physical therapy to help with gait training. This could include learning to walk with a device such as a walker or cane, or transitioning to or from one as well as helping to determine which device is best for which occasion.
Walking (ambulation) is an essential part of being human. Throughout the aging process our bodies go through changes whether we’ve been injured or not, that can affect the way we walk. As we age changes occur with our strength, posture, and ability to react to obstacles or slips or trips. In addition, as we age, most of us become more sedentary which causes additional limitations on how we move. Maintaining the ability to walk safely is what keeps us independent.
Gait training is an essential part of keeping us going as well and as long as we can.