Do you think you're walking properly?

A Slovenian orthopedic surgeon has warned that many people walk incorrectly, potentially leading to serious health consequences. Dr. Andrej Lahajner, a medical doctor and specialist in orthopedic surgery, highlighted common mistakes in walking patterns that could affect multiple parts of the body, including the feet, knees, hips, and spine. His observations were based on his experience with patients who suffer from chronic pain and mobility issues linked to improper gait. Lahajner noted that incorrect walking can result from a variety of causes, both neurological and musculoskeletal. He explained that individuals often develop faulty walking habits due to past injuries, chronic pain, or even psychological factors such as anxiety or stress. These habits can become ingrained over time, making them difficult to correct without conscious effort. He emphasized that while some variations in gait are normal, such as the slight inward or outward turning of the feet during childhood, persistent deviations can lead to long-term damage. According to Lahajner, the human body relies on a specific sequence of movements during each step to distribute weight evenly and maintain balance. The proper gait begins with the heel touching the ground, followed by the entire foot and toes, before the other foot follows. This process should remain symmetrical, with the majority of weight initially placed on the heel and gradually shifting toward the ball of the foot and midfoot. Proper alignment ensures that forces are distributed effectively throughout the lower body, reducing strain on joints and muscles. However, many people fail to follow this pattern. Some tend to land heavily on the balls of their feet, while others place too much pressure on the heels. Others may shift their weight unevenly, causing one side of the body to bear more load than the other. Lahajner pointed out that these misalignments can contribute to conditions such as osteoarthritis, joint degeneration, and spinal compression. Over time, improper gait can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility, particularly in older adults. The surgeon also addressed the role of footwear in maintaining a healthy gait. While many people favor barefoot walking or minimalist shoes, Lahajner cautioned that these options may not always be suitable for urban environments. He suggested that traditional shoes with adequate cushioning and support might be better suited for daily activities, especially for those with existing mobility concerns. He also mentioned that high heels can alter gait mechanics and increase the risk of injury, particularly among women. Lahajner acknowledged that identifying poor posture or gait abnormalities can be challenging for the untrained eye. However, he encouraged individuals to pay attention to how they move, especially if they experience discomfort or fatigue after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Simple exercises targeting weak muscles, such as strengthening the core and leg muscles, can help improve gait efficiency and reduce the likelihood of developing related health problems. He further stressed that correcting bad walking habits is possible at any age, though early intervention tends to yield better results. For children, minor variations in gait are typically harmless and often resolve naturally as they grow. However, persistent irregularities should be monitored by healthcare professionals to prevent complications later in life. Adults, on the other hand, may need targeted physical therapy or lifestyle adjustments to restore proper movement patterns.