Dr. Ekaterina Demyanovskaya, a neurologist, points out that a sluggish gait may indicate a deficiency of vitamin B12, as well as damage to the deep brain structures responsible for initiating movement
According to her, this walking pattern is sometimes associated with Parkinson's disease, which causes muscle stiffness.
She says: "A sluggish gait most often results from damage to the deep brain structures responsible for initiating and strengthening movement. The most famous example of this is Parkinson's disease. In this disease, the muscles stiffen, and central instability develops, causing a sharp decrease in stride length and a sluggish, unsteady gait. Peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities is also associated with a decrease in all types of sensation in the feet. Then, the person involuntarily lowers their eyes and begins to drag their feet to control their contact with the ground. This occurs in cases of severe vitamin B12 deficiency, diabetic neuropathy, or alcoholism."
The doctor points out that a similar gait is also common in a number of other conditions, particularly advanced supranuclear palsy. Therefore, vascular diseases should not be overlooked.
She says: "A sluggish gait may occur, for example, in the case of advanced supranuclear palsy. Vascular problems must be considered. A stroke or chronic cerebrovascular accident can also damage motor centers and pathways. This condition is often associated with stiffness when twisting and a general increase in muscle tone. The rapid development of symptoms and their possible asymmetry help the physician differentiate between a vascular cause and slow-progressing neurodegeneration."
