05 Mar Understanding How Gait Analysis Can Help You
Fact: Most of us don’t ever think about the way we walk and move – until something starts to hurt. If you’re dealing with persistent pain, recovering from an injury, or just want to move better, a gait analysis could be the key. It’s an effective way to understand what’s going on with your body and pinpoint any issues that might be causing pain, discomfort, or even holding you back from living an active life.
What is a Gait Analysis?
Our podiatrists explain that your gait is just a fancy way of saying ‘how you walk or run.’ Gait analysis is the process of studying this movement in detail. By looking at how your body moves, podiatrists can identify any imbalances or unusual patterns that might be leading to aches, pains, or even injuries.
Who Should Do a Gait Analysis?
Take a look at the list below. If you identify with any of the points, it’s a good reason to have your gait assessed:
- Prevent Injuries: Spotting movement issues early can stop problems like sports and overuse injuries in their tracks before they flare up.
- Boost Performance: If you’re an athlete, play sport regularly, or just love staying active, an efficient gait can improve your speed, endurance, and technique.
- Ease Pain: Do you have persistent pain in your feet, knees, hips, or even your lower back? Your gait might be the culprit.
- Improve Posture: Do you tend to hunch over or walk on your toes? A gait analysis can help you stand tall and move better overall.
What Happens During a Gait Analysis?
Here’s what you can expect when you do a gait analysis at footinjuryclinic:
- A Chat About Your Health History: Our podiatrist will ask about any previous injuries, pain, or conditions that could be affecting how you walk or run.
- Watching You Walk: Our podiatrist will then observe your movement to check for any obvious issues.
- Video Analysis: We may use cameras to record your gait so it can be examined in detail.
- Pressure Plate Testing: We also have pressure plates to measure how pressure is distributed across your feet as you move.
- Biomechanical Assessment: We have a specialised gait analysis room with video assessment on a treadmill and makes use of slow motion replays via Videotrak gait analysis software.
What Can Gait Analysis Do for You?
A gait analysis isn’t just about looking at how you walk – it’s about finding solutions that work for you. Whether it’s adjusting your footwear, prescribing custom orthotics, or recommending simple exercises to strengthen key muscles, this assessment can make a real difference to your comfort and mobility. For instance, if you need orthotic support, we can manufacture customised orthotics right here in our in-house laboratory that are tailored to your specific needs, providing the stability and cushioning your feet need.
Is It Time for a Gait Check?
If you or any of your family members have gait issues or if you feel you require orthotics, book an appointment to see our podiatrists so that you get the help you need.
Book an appointment online here or call us on the numbers below:
Bondi Junction: 9386 5400
Barangaroo: 8599 9811
St Ives: 9440 4600