What is ‘duck walk’ in old age? Expert shares tips on maintaining normal mobility

As individuals age, a condition called a ‘duck-walk’ or waddling gait can occur due to knee damage due to osteoarthritis.

Dr Aditya Jain, Senior Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon – Trauma and Arthroscopy at Primus Super Specialty Hospital spoke to IANS about ways to prevent ‘duck walk’ in older adults.

This condition often leads to individuals walking with a characteristic duck-like gait. However, in the early stages of osteoarthritis, there are conservative methods individuals can use to prevent or delay progression to the advanced stage.

cre trending stories

Let us get into some detail about the exercises that can help individuals prevent the progression of ‘duck-walk’ due to advanced osteoarthritis and maintain normal mobility even as they age.

First and foremost is weight loss

The most effective way of stopping or slowing down the progression of ‘duck-walk’ is to lose weight. By maintaining a healthy weight, the forces on the knee are reduced, which in turn reduces the chance of deformity progressing. Incorporating a balanced diet and regular exercise can help individuals achieve and maintain a healthy weight, which is beneficial for overall joint health.

Exercise to avoid ‘duck-walk’ in old age

Prone Leg Hang: This exercise involves lying in a prone position on a bed, with the knees positioned on the edge of a table and a rolled-up towel placed underneath for support, leaving the lower legs hanging in the air but with the knees aligned directly. Individuals should aim to do this exercise for 10 minutes twice a day. Prone leg hangs certainly help reduce the flexion or bending deformity of the knee that causes the ‘duck-walk’.

Strengthening Core Abs: Strengthening the muscles of the core and spine is essential for maintaining proper posture and stability. By engaging in exercises that target the abdominal and low back muscles, individuals can improve overall hip and thigh muscle strength, which affects the ability to walk upright.

Strengthening the Quadriceps: Strong quadriceps muscles at the front of the thigh play an important role in maintaining proper range of motion of the knee. Exercises such as leg extensions and lunges can help strengthen the quadriceps and provide better support to the knees.

Strengthening the hamstrings: The muscles in the back of the thighs, known as the hamstrings, are important for maintaining balance and stability during running. Strengthening these muscles through exercises such as leg curls and bridge can improve the overall strength of the legs and reduce the likelihood of a crooked gait.

Vastu Medialis Oblique (VMO) Strengthening: The VMO muscle, located on the inner thigh, plays an important role in knee stabilization. Exercises such as leg presses, step-ups and inner thigh squeezes can target and strengthen the VMO, helping to reduce knee stiffness.

Take precautions and benefits of preventive measures

While exercise is essential to prevent a ‘duck-walk’, it is important to avoid certain positions and exercises that can aggravate knee pain or discomfort. Squatting and sitting cross-legged should be avoided, as this can put excessive stress on the knees.

It is always recommended to consult with a health care professional or physical therapist before beginning any exercise program. By practicing diligent weight loss and engaging in targeted exercises, individuals can potentially avoid or delay the progression of osteoarthritis of the knee. Prevention is always better than cure.

It is possible to prevent the ‘duck-walk’ in old age with a combination of weight loss and targeted exercise. In some cases, removing braces may be beneficial for individuals experiencing a ‘duck-walk’. These braces redistribute weight and support to the affected knee, relieving pressure and reducing crooked gait.

By taking proactive steps to maintain joint health and mobility, individuals can enjoy an active and independent lifestyle as they age.