Diagnosis starts with conversation, not machines. A doctor will typically ask when the problem started, whether it came on suddenly or crept in gradually, and whether it's linked to pain, a specific injury, surgery, falls, weakness, numbness, or dizziness. That history alone often narrows the possibilities considerably.

Physical examination follows, checking:

Posture and general walking pattern

Muscle strength and joint movement

Reflexes, sensation, and coordination (neurological screening)

Balance and fall risk

Gait analysis is where things get more precise, a structured assessment of step length, walking speed, balance, and overall movement control, sometimes performed with the help of video or specialised equipment in more advanced settings.

Imaging and further tests are added based on what the clinical picture suggests:

X-rays for bone, joint alignment, or arthritis assessment.

MRI or CT scan when spine, brain, joint, or soft tissue detail is needed.

Nerve conduction studies or EMG if nerve or muscle involvement seems likely.

Blood tests, if infection, vitamin deficiency, or a metabolic cause is suspected.

Vision or inner-ear evaluation, when dizziness or balance problems are part of the picture.

Complex cases often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together orthopaedic, neurology, and physiotherapy input rather than relying on a single specialist's view.

Physical examination follows, checking:

Posture and general walking pattern

Muscle strength and joint movement

Reflexes, sensation, and coordination (neurological screening)

Balance and fall risk

Imaging and further tests are added based on what the clinical picture suggests:

X-rays for bone, joint alignment, or arthritis assessment.

MRI or CT scan when spine, brain, joint, or soft tissue detail is needed.

Nerve conduction studies or EMG if nerve or muscle involvement seems likely.

Blood tests, if infection, vitamin deficiency, or a metabolic cause is suspected.

Vision or inner-ear evaluation, when dizziness or balance problems are part of the picture.

Complex cases often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together orthopaedic, neurology, and physiotherapy input rather than relying on a single specialist's view.

Gait Abnormalities