Video Gait Analysis

What is video gait analysis?
Put very simply this is the study of human movement – walking and running and its effects on the body at large. As podiatrists we are very interested in the complex movements of the foot and their affects on the higher structures of the body.

What do we use video gait analysis for?
It is often said that the foot is the foundation of the body. If this is working poorly as it is in contact with the ground then the movements of the body above it will be affected adversely. By studying these movements we are able to understand how we can influence them for the better and help to stop recurrent injuries or joint pain. It can also be used for improving efficiency in sports that require running as their foundation.

Following the analysis we will recommend treatments to improve your gait that will often be a combination of:

• Footwear advice - the best shoes or trainers for your foot mechanics
• Orthotic prescription
• Exercises
• Physiotherapy and other rehabilitation treatment

How do we do video gait analysis?
Gait analysis is a part of a complete biomechanical analysis that looks at your foot, leg and whole body function.

In gait analysis we will video film your movement from the front, back and side. This information is then fed through a powerful software programme that will allow us to firstly synchronise all the films then help us to examine your movement patterns in minute detail. To do this we may need to draw lines on your legs and use tracking markers to follow particular point movements.

The best types of clothing to wear are shorts and T-shirt along with trainers and other shoes that you wear regularly. Black shoes do not show up as well as lighter coloured shoes.

Who can be helped by video gait analysis?
Gait analysis is traditionally associated with athletes and can be used to help most people. Runners in particular will be greatly helped by studying their movement patterns to increase efficiency and prevent injury.

Children often suffer skeletal imbalance when growing. This often appears as foot and leg pain but may show as uneven wear on shoes or reduced ability to run or take part in sports.

Adults suffering from chronic foot, leg or back pains are often seen to have poor gait patterns during analysis. Foot deformities such as bunions and flat feet will also produce an altered gait.

Studying and rectifying these abnormal movements will usually lead to great improvement in symptoms and walking and movement.




© 2011 Total Foot Health

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