Are you frustrated that you are walking with a limp as opposed to a normal stride? For some, a specific injury may be the cause of that limp, but for others it just kind of develops. Maybe there is pain when walking which feeds the limping, but maybe not.

So I limp…what can I do about it?

You have several options but all of them start with a visit to a medial provider…specifically a physical therapist. This physical therapist is THE MOVEMENT EXPERT, who can determine the cause of your limping and develop a plan to assist. If further medical intervention is necessary, they will be able to refer you to the best provider to help you.

What exactly will this physical therapist do to assist? Well, after determining the cause they will guide the individual in addressing their pain, strength, flexibility, coordination, or mobility deficit. Any of these issues can result in a person struggling to walk with a more normal pattern. The most common reason for a person limping is pain, BUT why is there pain? That is where treatment needs to be focused. When looking deeper, strength is the next most common reason for a person to limp. Without addressing the cause, the chance for improvement is low.

Additionally, they may recommend usage of an assistive device (at least short-term) to reduce the limp and or pain associated with the limp. Many are not excited by the prospect of an assistive device, but sometimes they are a necessary item in the rehab process. Plus, by using an assistive device, the individual can re-learn how to walk with less of the limp. Once the individual has less pain and can walk with better form, the potential to throw that assistive device back in the closet exists.

What you should know is that it is easy to develop a limp but much harder to lose it. Thus, the longer a person walks around that way, the harder it will be to return to “normal”. As a result, it is wise to get those aches/pains and limp addressed sooner than later.

Ready to be done walking like an “old person”? Then click the Following Link to connect with an expert who can help you get back to walking freer and easier once again.