If your elderly aunt seems unsteady on her feet, or tends to lean backward when standing or even sitting, it may be a sign of a newly recognized posture disorder named Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome (PDS). Hesitating when starting to walk and a tendency to take small steps with a shuffling gait, medically called MARCHE A PETITS PAS, are characteristics of this condition. A fear of falling is also another characteristic sign of this disorder. Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome is sometimes mistaken for Parkinson's disease and other neuromuscular disorders.
Besides being a common sign of aging, PDS may point to a number of serious conditions, such as heart disease, dehydration, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or other metabolic problems. PDS can also signal changes in the small blood vessels in the brain or even a brain tumor.
Researchers believe that inactivity may actually worsen or increase the risk of Psychomotor Disadaptation Syndrome. Being confined to bed for an illness can trigger it in older folks, too. This is confirmation of the use-it-or lose-it approach to health.
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