Scissors gait is a common gait pattern observed in individuals with neurological impairments, such as stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis (MS) (Gentile, 2019; Morris, 2019). It is characterized by an asymmetric gait pattern, where the legs cross in a scissors-like motion as the individual walks. This gait pattern is often accompanied by a wide-based stance and an increased hip adduction and knee flexion on the affected side (Gentile, 2019).
The exact causes of scissors gait are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to damage or dysfunction in the central nervous system (CNS) (Gentile, 2019). For individuals with stroke, it is thought to be caused by the deficits in the motor pathways between the primary motor cortex and the spinal cord (Morris, 2019). In individuals with MS, it is thought to be caused by damage to the nerve pathways in the spinal cord (Gentile, 2019).
The treatment of scissors gait depends on the underlying cause. For individuals with stroke, physical therapy is often recommended to improve gait and balance (Morris, 2019). For individuals with MS, medications may be prescribed to reduce the symptoms of spasticity and improve the coordination of movement (Gentile, 2019).
In conclusion, scissors gait is a common gait pattern observed in individuals with neurological impairments, such as stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. The exact causes of the gait pattern are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to damage or dysfunction in the CNS. The treatment of scissors gait depends on the underlying cause, and may include physical therapy and/or medications.
References
Gentile, L. (2019). Scissors Gait. Retrieved from https://www.physio-pedia.com/Scissors_Gait
Morris, M. (2019). Scissors Gait in Stroke: Causes, Treatment, and Prognosis. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/scissors-gait-in-stroke