Why Indian moms walk ‘like a penguin’ after 60? Physiotherapist explains why it happens and when to be concerned
Mom's Penguin Walk After 60? A Physiotherapist Breaks Down the Real Causes
Bharatmorningnews.com – Have you observed your elderly mother shifting from side to side while walking? Many people assume this waddling motion is simply part of growing older. However, Dr. Akash Singh, a physiotherapist based in Mumbai, suggests that this altered gait often stems from weakened hip muscles. These muscle deficiencies can impact balance, spinal health, and knee stability.
Understanding the Waddling Gait
In a video posted on Instagram on August 12, Dr. Singh clarified why certain seniors develop what medical professionals call a waddling gait. Rather than accepting it as inevitable aging, he recommends investigating the root cause.
"This is called waddling gait. And this is due to the weakness of your hip muscles, specifically the gluteus medius and hip flexors," says Dr Akash.
During normal ambulation, we balance on one leg at a time. The gluteus medius muscle plays a crucial role in stabilizing the pelvis during this phase. When this muscle weakens, the pelvis tends to drop with each step.
"When you walk, you are on a single leg. Then your gluteus medius keeps your pelvis stable. And if it is weak, the pelvis will drop."
To counteract this instability, the body naturally leans toward the opposite side. This compensatory movement creates the characteristic side-to-side sway.
"And to compensate for that, the body will lean to the other side," he explains.
How Hip Flexor Weakness Contributes
Beyond the gluteus medius, hip flexor strength matters significantly for proper walking mechanics. Weakness in these muscles makes it difficult to lift the feet adequately.
"And if the hip flexors are also weak, then you will not be able to lift your feet to walk. Which will eventually look like this," he says.
Ripple Effects on Body Health
The consequences of this altered walking pattern extend far beyond appearance. Every time the pelvis drops during a step, the lower back must work harder to compensate.
"The problem is that its effect does not stop at just walking. The pelvis falls at every step. The lower back has to compensate for it," he says.
This ongoing compensation can lead to chronic back discomfort. Additionally, the knee joint may collapse inward, creating uneven pressure on cartilage and resulting in knee pain.
"From there, the back pain starts. The knee collapses from the inside. There is uneven pressure on the cartilage, which can cause knee pain," he adds.
Balance deterioration represents another serious concern. Older adults face increased fall risk when their gait changes, which can have significant consequences.
"And the balance decreases. The fall risk increases. Which can be serious in older adults," Dr. Singh says.
Dr. Singh emphasizes that family members should not automatically attribute these walking changes to age alone.
"So next time you see your mom walking like this, don't just blame the age," he says.
When to Seek Professional Help
Since a waddling gait can stem from various underlying conditions, persistent or worsening symptoms warrant professional evaluation. Pain, weakness, or balance issues should be assessed by a qualified healthcare provider rather than managed through self-diagnosis.
Dr. Akash Singh brings over five years of expertise in physiotherapy, pain management, fitness, and rehabilitation to his practice. As the founder of One Rehab, he holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy degree from Himalayan University.
Note: This article provides general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult your physician regarding any medical concerns.
This content originates from social media user-generated material. HT.com has not independently verified all claims presented.
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