Gait Analysis

Gait analysis is used at Macclesfield Podiatry to assess the way a person walks or runs. Gait analysis is used to identify problems and compensatory mechanisms that are movement related.

What is a gait analysis?

A gait analysis is a component of a biomechanical assessment.Essentially a gait analysis is an assessment of a person’s walk. A gait analysis is used by the podiatrists at Macclesfield Podiatry to identify walking pattern and style, and to assess what compensatory mechanisms are occurring as a result of biomechanical dysfunction.

During a gait analysis you will be asked to walk up and down, or on a treadmill. Your podiatrist will then use their knowledge and skill to identify dysfunction, where the dysfunction is occurring, and what compensatory mechanisms are taking place.

It is important that our body’s move efficiently so that we can avoid injury and deterioration of joints. Our joints must have the required range of movement, and our muscles need to be strong and flexible. If one of these components is missing in any joint or muscle then the body must compensate for the problem, and this leads to biomechanical problems.

What problems can a gait analysis help with?

A number of injuries and conditions are the result of poor mechanics, for example:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinopathy
• Bunion
• Hallux limitus
• Knee pain
• Iliotibial band syndrome
• Calf pain
• Medial tibial stress syndrome
• Anterior tibial stress syndrome

A gait analysis is suitable for anybody,includingadults and children, people with back, hip, knee, calf ankle and foot pain, people who have problems with their lower extremity, and people who experience balance or instability issues. Sportspeople and those who exercise regularly in particular should be assessed in order to make sure that they are wearing the correct footwear and orthoses if necessary. This is to ensure that optimum performance is achieved and the risk of injury reduced.

Gait analysis includes:

• Medical and social history
• Activity level
• Footwear assessment
• Joint examination, sitting and standing
• Muscle strength assessment
• Walking assessment
• Diagnosis and explanation
• Treatment/appropriate referral if and when necessary

For more information on how gait analysis can benefit you, or to book an appointment please call 0161 883 0099, or email office@macclesfieldpodiatry.co.uk