Functional Gait Disorder

Functional Gait Disorder (FGD) refers to an abnormal or unsteady walking pattern that cannot be explained by a structural neurological problem such as stroke, multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury. It is often part of a broader condition called Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), where the brain struggles to control movement properly — even though the nerves and muscles are intact.

At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we support adults with Functional Gait Disorder through our specialist inpatient neurorehabilitation service. Our multidisciplinary team helps patients rebuild confidence, improve walking ability, and regain independence.

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What Does Functional Gait Disorder Look Like?

FGD symptoms can vary widely between individuals, but may include:

• Unsteadiness or a sensation of imbalance
• Legs feeling “stuck,” “weak,” or “not responding”
• A dramatic limp or unusual step pattern
• Wide-based or hesitant gait
• Staggering or collapsing without injury
• Difficulty using walking aids effectively
• Symptoms that fluctuate or worsen with attention or stress

Importantly, these symptoms are real, distressing, and often misunderstood. People with FGD may worry that others think they are “putting it on” — when in fact, the problem lies in how the brain controls movement, not in effort or intention.

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What Causes Functional Gait Disorder?

Functional Gait Disorder is part of the spectrum of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). It is often triggered or worsened by:

• Injury or fall (even without major damage)
• Illness or hospitalisation
• Prolonged immobility
• Psychological trauma or stress
• Coexisting pain, fatigue, or fear of movement
• Post-stroke or post-concussion adjustment

It may also develop alongside conditions such as:

• Functional Weakness
• Functional Sensory Loss
• Functional Tremor
• Post-Traumatic Fatigue Syndrome

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How We Can Help

Our inpatient rehabilitation programme at Royal Bucks is designed for people with complex functional motor symptoms, including gait and balance disorders. We offer:

Multidisciplinary Treatment:

• Neurophysiotherapy – to retrain walking patterns and movement control
• Occupational therapy – to support daily function and reduce fear of movement
• Neuropsychology – to address anxiety, low confidence, trauma or adjustment
• Education – to help patients understand their diagnosis and recovery pathway
• Fatigue and pacing strategies – to manage energy levels effectively

Our goal is to help each patient regain trust in their body and restore the ability to walk safely and independently.

Explore Our Rehabilitation Centre
Learn About Functional Neurological Disorder

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When to Consider Inpatient Rehab

You may benefit from inpatient support if:

• Your walking pattern is affecting your independence or confidence
• You’ve seen neurologists but have not been offered rehabilitation
• You are living with overlapping symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or anxiety
• Your symptoms have worsened over time or after an injury
• Previous physiotherapy has not helped or was difficult to complete