4 year old child stumbles frequently

My 4 year old has a history of her legs giving out, sometimes resulting in her crashing to the ground.  She often stumbles and crashes into objects.  Her heels turn in when she walks. Her preschool teacher told her that she doesn't walk, she "careens" around the room.   I took her to an orthopedic doctor when she was about 1 1/2, and he did find some curvature in her legs but doubted that was the cause of her issues.  He said that if this continued past the age of 2 she should see a neurologist.

I have made an appointment for my daughter to see a neurologist next month, but I'm very nervous and would like to understand what may be causing her problems.  She has also exhibited some learning disabilities, and her IQ has been recorded around 70.  She has a half brother who is autistic, but she does not exhibit the typical signs of autism.  

I want to make sure I'm prepared for the appointment.  What should I bring?  What types of questions will I be asked?

I appreciate any assistance!

[Christopher R Newey, DO]

Thanks for using the forum. I am happy to address your questions, and my answer will be based on the information you provided here. Please make sure you recognize that this forum is for educational purposes only, and it does not substitute for a formal office visit with a doctor.

Without the ability to examine and obtain a history, I can not tell you what the exact cause of the symptoms is. However I will try to provide you with some useful information.

First of all, more information will be needed. For example, what are the situations that your child falls? Is there a warning? What is the frequency of the falls? Is there loss of consciousness? What other symptoms are present? Secondly, it may be necessary to rule out causes of falls such as cardiac, seizures, etc. It is possible these episodes could be behavioral, but organic causes will need to be evaluated.

Thank you for this opportunity to answer your questions, I hope you find the information I have provided useful, good luck.