Shuffling gait is observed in:-

Appeared in: AIIMS Manglagiri NO - 2019

Explanation

Shuffling gait is a classic and defining motor symptom of Parkinsonism.
This gait is characterized by short, dragging steps, a stooped posture, reduced arm swing, and difficulty initiating movement (hesitation).
It is caused by bradykinesia (slowness of movement) and rigidity, which are core features of Parkinson's disease resulting from a deficiency of dopamine in the brain.
Patients may also exhibit 'festination,' which is an involuntary acceleration of steps, increasing the risk of falls.

Option A: This condition involves joint inflammation and pain.
Option B: This is a cancer of plasma cells that can lead to bone lesions and pain.
Option C: This is an infection of the female reproductive organs causing pelvic pain.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Gait abnormalities in neurological disorders as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in assessing gait and mobility to identify patients at high risk for falls, especially those with a shuffling gait.
Key nursing interventions for a patient with shuffling gait include ensuring a clutter-free environment, recommending sturdy, low-heeled shoes, and teaching strategies to manage 'freezing' episodes, such as marching in place or stepping over an imaginary line.
Patient and family education on fall prevention is a critical nursing responsibility for individuals with Parkinsonism.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key clinical sign presented in the question stem, which is 'shuffling gait'.
Access your knowledge of common gait abnormalities and the diseases associated with them.
Recognize that a shuffling gait is a pathognomonic (classic) sign of an extrapyramidal syndrome, most notably Parkinsonism.
Systematically evaluate the other options. Consider the primary pathology of each condition (inflammatory arthritis, cancer, infection) and determine if they would cause this specific neurological gait pattern.
Conclude that Parkinsonism is the only condition among the choices that directly causes a shuffling gait due to its effects on the central nervous system's control of motor function.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 219-221

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Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.