What Is Gait Analysis?
Gait analysis or podiatry assessment is the examination of how someone walks or runs. Our podiatrists carry out these assessments to identify movement issues that may be causing discomfort or injury, particularly in people who are physically active.
The podiatrist carries out an assessment of the patient which may include walking, running on a treadmill, pressure computerised gait system, etc.
Gait analysis is an important component of our assessment whether we are treating patients with mobility issues or elite athletes.
Who Should Have A Gait Analysis?
A Gait analysis helps you understand how you move. It can highlight potential issues or imbalances, so you can choose the right footwear or get the treatment you need. More commonly, a gait analysis may be carried out on:
- Runners, looking to improve their form
- People suffering from foot, ankle or knee pain
- Those recovering from an injury or surgery
- People with flat feet or high arches
Gait issues can develop for a variety of reasons and can affect anyone, at any age.
Common causes include:
- Previous injuries such as sprains or fractures
- Poor or unsupportive footwear, including worn-out trainers
- Muscle imbalances or weakness
- Flat feet or high arches
- Overtraining or inefficient running technique
- Age-related changes in movement and mobility
Understanding what’s driving your gait issues is the first step towards effective treatment and long-term relief.
Common Problems We Diagnose
Our podiatrists can diagnose a wide range of conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis: inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, often causing sharp heel pain, especially in the morning or after rest. It is commonly linked to overuse and poor foot mechanics during walking or running.
- Achilles tendon issues: pain or stiffness in the tendon at the back of the ankle, often caused by repetitive strain, tight calf muscles, or biomechanical imbalances in gait.
- Shin splints: pain along the shin bone, frequently seen in runners or those increasing activity levels too quickly. This can be influenced by foot strike patterns and overpronation.
- Overpronation or supination: abnormal rolling in or out of the foot during movement. Over time, this can place extra stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and even hips.
- Knee pain linked to gait: poor alignment or movement patterns in the foot and ankle can travel upward through the kinetic chain, contributing to discomfort in the knees during walking or exercise.
How the Podiatry Assessment Works
When you visit our clinic, your podiatrist will talk you through the assessment process. Our standard procedure looks like this:
- Initial consultation: During your first visit to the clinic, you’ll have the chance to discuss what brought you to us. This includes mentioning any pain or discomfort, or previous injury. Your consultant will ask about your lifestyle choices, whether you take part in any sport, or your choice of daily footwear.
- Walking or running analysis: Your consultant will ask you to take part in a short walking or running session on the treadmill. Here, your motion will be assessed to spot any irregularities. This could include heel-to-toe contact with the floor or leaning to one side.
- Data capture: Your movements on the treadmill will likely be recorded by our team, specifically focusing on your feet. This recording will be reviewed after your session to ensure the correct diagnosis is made.
- Personalised treatment plan: After reviewing your gait analysis, your podiatrist will build a personalised plan for you to help improve your running technique.
Treatment Options Following Analysis
Based on your gait analysis, your treatment may include:
- Custom orthotics
- Footwear advice
- Exercise/rehab plans
- Manual therapy
- Referral to surgery (this is not normally necessary)
No, having a gait analysis is completely painless and only requires you to walk or run on a treadmill for approximately 5 minutes.
The duration of your consultation can last anywhere between 30 to 60 minutes. In this time, your consultant will examine your movement, answer any questions you have and discuss treatment.
You do not need to have a referral to visit the London Foot and Ankle Centre. Simply get in touch via our online form or call us.
We recommend wearing comfortable shoes that you would normally wear for being active. If you already have orthopaedic shoes, please bring these with you.
Yes, our consultants often see patients under 16. A child may visit us for a gait analysis if their parents notice frequent tripping/persistent walking issues, or suspect their child may have cerebral palsy.
