Which of the following describes a waddling gait?

A waddling gait is characterized by an unsteady, swaying motion while walking, which aligns with the chosen answer. This type of gait is often seen in conditions where the individual may have muscular weakness, issues with balance, or certain developmental disorders. The swaying motion can occur due to various underlying causes, such as hip dysplasia or muscular dystrophy, where the body's center of gravity shifts more than typical during ambulation.

In contrast, a smooth, steady walk describes a normal gait pattern characterized by a fluid and coordinated movement, which does not encompass the instability associated with waddling. A quick, shuffling movement focuses on rapid, small steps, typically seen in conditions like Parkinson's disease, which again contrasts with the broader, more lateral movements in a waddling gait. Lastly, a high-stepping march refers to a gait where the legs are lifted higher than usual, often associated with neurological conditions, and does not represent the side-to-side swaying motion typical of a waddling gait.