Festination

Festination, or shuffling gait, is a common motor symptom in Parkinson’s. You may experience short, rapid steps that propel you forward, often resulting in a stooped posture. This gait pattern occurs because your centre of gravity is too far forward, causing you to take quick, shuffling steps to avoid falling. Festination can make walking difficult and increase the risk of falls. Management strategies include physical therapy, gait training, and optimising your medications to improve mobility and safety.