Trendelenburg gait is a compensatory walking pattern that occurs due to weakness in the hip abductor muscles, particularly the gluteus medius and minimus, resulting in a characteristic dropping of the pelvis on the opposite side of the weakened muscles during the stance phase. This gait pattern is often associated with conditions such as hip dysplasia, nerve damage, or muscular dystrophy, and can lead to further musculoskeletal issues if not addressed properly.