How to: Gait Test

If your coordination or balance begins to deteriorate, your physician may suspect an underlying physical problem. To uncover the source, she may administer the Tinetti Evaluation. The Tinetti Evaluation is commonly referred to as a gait test. This test is a simple, non-invasive visual analysis of the way you walk. The results can play an important role in determining what muscular or skeletal conditions, if any, contribute to your symptoms.

Things You'll Need

  • Tinetti Gait and Balance Evaluation Form
  • Pen
  • Athletic Shoes
  • Socks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Walk away from your physician at a casual pace, for predetermined distance. Turn around and return to him at a quicker, but safe, pace. As you walk, your gait is evaluated under six criteria. They are gait initiation, step length and height, step symmetry, step continuity, walking path, balance, and walking stance.

    • 2

      To measure gait initiation, your physician will note whether you display signs of hesitancy before walking or within your initial few steps. If your first steps are slow or erratic, she will take note.

    • 3

      Your physician measures step length and height. Specifically, he will note whether your swinging foot passes your stationary foot on each step. He will also discern whether both feet clear the floor as you walk.

    • 4

      Your physician measures step symmetry by comparing the stride lengths on both sides of your body. Stride length on opposite legs are noted, as either equal or unequal.

    • 5

      As you walk, your physician measures step continuity. She records whether you stopped walking between steps, or can walk the entire distance without stopping.

    • 6

      Your walking path is visually measured to see if you deviate from a straight line.

    • 7

      Your physician records whether you exhibited balance problems while walking. This includes a swaying torso, bent knees or using your arms for balance.

    • 8

      To measure walking stance, your doctor notes whether your heels touch or stay apart.