nonambulant

Nonambulant is an adjective used in medical and clinical contexts to describe a person who cannot walk independently or without assistance. It conveys current mobility status rather than a specific diagnosis and is commonly recorded in patient notes, care plans, and research. Spelling varies: nonambulant (closed form) and hyphenated non-ambulant are both encountered; some sources also use non-ambulatory as a synonym, though usage differs by region.

Causes of nonambulant status are diverse. They include acute injuries such as fractures or spinal cord injury; neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, or advanced neurodegenerative diseases; severe cardiopulmonary illness; and progressive musculoskeletal disorders like advanced arthritis or muscular dystrophy. Assessment typically considers walking with no aid, with an assistive device, or not at all, and includes risks such as falls, pressure ulcers, and respiratory complications.

Management focuses on safety, comfort, and enabling whatever mobility is feasible. Interventions may include physical and occupational therapy, assistive devices, and environmental and care planning adjustments. Goals vary by underlying condition and may range from partial restoration of walking to maintenance of mobility with devices. Nonambulant status informs disability classification, care needs, and resource planning in health care and social services, highlighting the importance of falls prevention, skin care, and respiratory support.