Although similar to the gait of an individual with Parkinson's disease, the NPH gait is distinguished by the preservation of reciprocal arm swing (Kuba et al., 2002).

"The gait in normal pressure hydrocephalus is often described as a magnetic gait, where patients almost seem as if their feet are stuck to the ground." said Nestor Tomycz, a Neurosurgeon.

NPH is a challenge to diagnose, since many people don’t fit the classic symptoms, there are many other causes of memory and gait troubles, and the findings on CT or MRI can be subtle.

It’s a tricky condition that mimics Alzheimer’s, but NPH patients have three telltale symptoms: unsteady gait, memory loss, and frequent urination.

NPH is a challenge to diagnose, as many people don’t fit the classic symptoms, there are many other causes of memory and gait troubles, and the findings on CT or MRI can be subtle. The decision ...

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a progressive disease. Support groups are encouraged for patients and family members, especially when the sufferer is not considered a good candidate for surgery.

Billy Joel was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).© Getty Images Colloid cysts can lead to a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid, increasing pressure on the brain.© sudok1 - stock ...

The gait is most likely to improve with a shunt. Advanced neurological changes often do not get better, which is why making the diagnosis and beginning treatment quickly is important.

In May 2025, Billy Joel revealed that he'd been diagnosed with a brain condition called normal pressure hydrocephalus. Here’s ...

Normal pressure hydrocephalus is a treatable condition for many patients. The assessment findings in NPH include a distinctive gait abnormality and disturbances in cognition and control of urine ...