Gait Analysis
A runner’s gait analysis is a detailed assessment of a person’s running form and biomechanics.
It’s used to identify inefficiencies, imbalances, and potential risk factors that can lead to injury. By breaking down how you run, a professional can offer guidance on how to improve your running technique, choose the right footwear, and reduce the chance of getting hurt.
What Happens During a Gait Analysis?
Typically, a gait analysis involves running on a treadmill while being filmed from various angles. At Shires physio, we use slow-motion video software to review your stride. They’ll look for key markers like:
- Foot strike: How your foot lands (e.g., heel, midfoot, or forefoot).
- Pronation: The natural inward roll of the foot after it lands.
- Knee and hip alignment: How your joints track and move throughout the stride.
- Torso and arm movement: The stability and motion of your upper body.
This visual data is often combined with a physical examination to check for muscle imbalances, flexibility issues, and any previous injuries.
What Happens During a Gait Analysis?
A gait analysis can be beneficial for runners of all levels. For a beginner, it can establish a strong foundation for proper running form, helping to prevent common injuries like shin splints or runner’s knee. For an experienced runner, it can help identify the root cause of persistent pain or improve running efficiency to shave time off a race.
Based on the analysis and use of VALDS human track software, your physio will provide personalised recommendations. These might include:
- Shoe recommendations: Suggesting footwear that suits your specific foot type and running style (e.g., stability shoes for overpronation).
- Exercises: Providing a plan of strength and flexibility exercises to correct imbalances.
- Form cues: Offering simple tips to adjust your running technique, such as increasing your cadence (steps per minute).
In short, a gait analysis offers a clear, data-driven look at your running form, providing the insights you need to run smarter and healthier.
Jon has been an extraordinary part of my recovery. The sessions have all been 10/10. Jon has always got techniques you can use to work around your problem and strengthen it without any detrimental effect on your injury. Jon always has a solution to everything no matter what it is. I have seen massive improvements and the progression I have had over the past month has been unreal.
"My son got an injury to his lower back whilst playing rugby for his under 13's team. After visiting another physio and a little rest he was still struggling. Thankfully we were recommended to see Jon. After a few visits, he helped my son recover and actually come back stronger with a greater understanding of his body and how to prepare for the demands of rugby. He loved the sessions from the get go! I cannot recommend Jon more. We are very grateful, and if any of us get an injury we'd be straight back! Thank you!"
It is hard to believe that when I came to you with plantar fasciitis in November I was in considerable pain most of the time, and it was often a struggle doing everyday things like walking down the road or getting out of bed in the morning. That seems a bit like a bad dream now, because I am pain free most of the time and able to stand and walk without any discomfort, and things are getting steadily better and better. I am so pleased that I came to you for physio and followed your exercise programme. It worked brilliantly!
Anna....thank you so much for today. You have made a world of difference and the change in his mood from when he woke up is just wonderful. We are so grateful for all your help....you literally brought a ray of sunshine into the house today.
"Appointments with Anna at Shires for children's physio have been great. Great expertise during sessions and also 'Integrated' with the NHS so she is able to write back to doctors giving feedback and to ask further tests. Physio costs via Bupa without issue. Exercises and letters are done through an APP which makes everything slick and easy to manage. "
"Having had a bad back for several months the expert physios at Shires fixed me! Both Jon and Hiloni were highly skilled and professional filling me with confidence that with their support my pain and mobility would improve. The excellent hands on sessions and follow up exercises made a hugely positive difference to my recovery and I would highly recommend them. Thank you so much for all your help."
"Thank you Jon. I hugely appreciate your professional expertise. Genuinely makes such a difference "
I can’t rate these guys highly enough. Just after 3 sessions I can already feel such an improvement! Jon identified the issues straight away and provided me with a real understanding of what was causing the pain, which I found really helpful. This was followed by a clear treatment plan, which he adapts each time based on my progress. I’m feeling so much more positive and can see a pain free future!