Walking (Gait) Abnormalities | Testing and Diagnosis

How does a doctor diagnose gait abnormality?

Your child's doctor will carefully observe your child as he or she walks or runs.

Other diagnostic procedures may include:

•   X-rays – A diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy
    beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film

•   Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – A diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio
    frequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. This test is done
    to rule out any associated abnormalities of the spinal cord and nerves

•   Computerized Tomography Scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) – A diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a
    combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called "slices"), both
    horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones,
    muscles, fat and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays