A myopathic gait in toddlers is an abnormal walking pattern that results from muscle dysfunction or muscle weakness.
A toddler or child that has myopathic gait will often waddle, sway or have an unsteady gait, which is often a result of a primary muscle disorder called myopathy or even some other conditions that can affect the toddler or child's muscle strength.
The signs of myopathic gait in toddlers and children include a side to side swaying motion, that is especially noticeable when the toddler or child is walking, due to weakness in their hip muscles and thigh muscles.
The toddler or child may also stand with their feet farther apart than usual to improve their balance.
And they may also have trouble with lifting of their feet, which can result in stumbling or shuffling.
And the toddler or child's upper body might sway or even wobble when they walk, indicating a lack of core stability.
The toddler or child may also hold their arms out to the sides or in front of them for balance, instead of letting the arms swing naturally.
Causes of myopathic gain in toddlers and children include Cerebral palsy, vitamin D deficiency, metabolic disorders, spinal muscular atrophy, congenital myopathies and muscular dystrophies.
Muscular dystrophies are genetic disorders which cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration.
Congenital myopathies are muscle disorders which present at birth and can vary in severity.
Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic condition that affects the toddler or child's motor neurons, which lead to muscle weakness and atrophy.
And severe vitamin D deficiency can also lead to muscle weakness and gait problems.
Cerebral palsy is a condition which affects the toddler or child's movement and coordination, which can also cause gait abnormalities.
If your toddler or child's gait appears unusual or delayed beyond the typical age of walking which is around 18 months or if the toddler or child falls frequently or has difficulty with steps or if they show other signs of muscle weakness like difficulty with climbing stairs or getting up from the floor you should take the child to a doctor.