Unlocking the Secrets of Gait Analysis: Benefits and Expectations

Gait analysis is a valuable tool in the field of podiatry, offering insights into the way we walk and move. It plays a crucial role in addressing various foot-related issues and optimising performance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of gait analysis, exploring its significance, benefits, and what you can expect from the process.

What is Gait Analysis?

Gait analysis is a systematic examination of an individual's walking pattern or gait. It involves studying the biomechanics of how the body moves during walking, jogging, or running. Podiatrists use this information to understand the distribution of pressure, alignment, and overall mechanics of the lower limbs. Understanding this information also allows Podiatrists to make informed decisions on things like suitable footwear and custom insole designs. 

Why do a Gait Analysis?

Understanding one's gait is essential for several reasons, including:

- Identifying Biomechanical Issues

Gait analysis helps identify abnormal biomechanics, such as overpronation or supination, that may contribute to foot pain or injuries.

- Injury Prevention

By recognizing faulty movement patterns, gait analysis aids in preventing injuries related to repetitive stress on the feet and lower limbs, such as shin splints or medial tibial stress syndrome, which is a common complaint of pain amongst runners.

- Optimising Performance

Athletes can benefit by optimising their gait for enhanced performance, ensuring efficient energy transfer, and reducing the risk of fatigue.

- Customised Treatment Plans

Gait analysis guides podiatrists in developing personalised treatment plans, including recommending appropriate footwear, orthotics, or exercises.

The Benefits of Gait Analysis Include:

- Improved Biomechanical Efficiency

Gait analysis helps enhance the overall efficiency of biomechanics, allowing for a more natural and comfortable walking or running experience. By analysing an individual's gait pattern, insufficiencies such as weakness in the glutes, internal knee rotation, and low-gear propulsion can be highlighted, addressed, and managed. This will lead to a more energy-conservative walk or run whilst reducing the risk of injury.

- Injury Rehabilitation

Individuals recovering from injuries can benefit from gait analysis, as it assists in tailoring rehabilitation programs to address specific gait-related issues.

- Enhanced Sports Performance

Athletes can optimise their performance by addressing gait irregularities and adopting corrective measures.

- Prevention of Future Issues

Early identification of gait abnormalities can prevent the development of chronic foot problems and reduce the risk of future injuries.

How is Gait Analysis Done?

Observational Gait Analysis:

Podiatrists visually assess the walking pattern, looking for abnormalities in foot positioning, hip movement, and overall posture.

Pressure Plate Analysis:

Specialised pressure plates capture data on the distribution of weight during walking, providing insights into pressure points and imbalances.

3D Motion Analysis

Advanced technology tracks joint movements and angles, offering a detailed analysis of the entire gait cycle.

Treadmill Gait Analysis

What to Expect from Gait Analysis:

Footwear Recommendations:

Orthotic/insole Prescriptions:

Custom orthotics may be recommended to correct biomechanical issues and provide additional support. Orthotics, otherwise known as insoles have been used in sports for over 3 decades. They are special inlays that apply pressure from underneath the foot to manipulate the ankle, midfoot and forefoot making the biomechanics more efficient. 

Exercise Programs:

Gait analysis often leads to the prescription of specific exercises or physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve overall gait mechanics. Individuals experiencing anterior knee pain will likely display internal rotation of the knee due to weakness at the glutes. Gait analysis can help highlight this and provide a clear insight into specific areas that need strengthening. For these individuals, glute bridges or split squats would be beneficial. However, the requirement depends on the individual so it is always recommended to see a specialist before self prescribing. 

Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals

In some cases, collaboration with physiotherapists or other healthcare professionals may be recommended to address broader musculoskeletal issue.

Using Zebris treadmill for optimal patient outcome

Here at UFIT, our podiatrists utilise the Zebris treadmill, an exceptionally intelligent piece of equipment designed to enhance the analysis of your gait cycle. Think of it as a friendly observer during your exercise routine, meticulously capturing each step and movement. It enables us to observe and study the way clients walk or run at various speeds, meticulously analysing countless steps. But it's not just about speed – the treadmill explores everything, from how your foot touches the ground to the way you roll off it. Essentially, it is like a helpful guide, giving us a detailed and versatile picture of how our clients move.

This state-of-the-art treadmill goes beyond traditional gait analysis, incorporating high-tech software linked to a 3D printer.  It paves the way for personalised and precisely tailored solutions in recommending not only the right shoes, but customised 3D-printed insoles. This ensures the shoes you choose or the insoles you get align seamlessly with your unique biomechanics, promoting optimal comfort and support.

Conclusion

Gait analysis is a powerful tool that goes beyond merely observing how we walk. It empowers individuals to optimise their gait, prevent injuries, and enhance overall foot health. By understanding the process, benefits, and potential outcomes of gait analysis, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier and more comfortable walking experience. If you've been experiencing foot discomfort or want to improve your athletic performance, consider consulting with our podiatry team for a comprehensive gait analysis tailored to your unique needs.