Gait Analysis 101
How you walk, run and stand reveals a lot about your body's mechanics — and where injuries are likely to occur. An introduction to gait analysis and why it matters.
Gait analysis — also known as Functional Movement Screen (FMS) — is used to identify and prevent imbalanced areas of mobility, stability, strength or neuromuscular control. It is particularly useful for individuals who plan to or are currently partaking in a physical activity that involves the lower limbs, like running.
This is achieved by performing and analysing a set of functional movements, including:
- Gait
- Squat
- Lunge
- Rotary stability
By analysing these movements, your therapist can pinpoint functional deficits. These can then be treated to help prevent current and future injuries.
What the Assessment Leads To
The FMS will determine the most suitable treatment plan, which usually includes a sports massage, and possibly joint mobilisations if the joints themselves are painful or restricted.
The final stage is to run through corrective exercises and self-treatment techniques, so you can continue progress between visits.
Understanding Pronation
Pronation refers to the way your foot rolls inwards when it impacts the floor. This is your body's way of distributing impact, and everyone has it to some degree.
It is important to understand your pronation type in order to help prevent future injuries and to select the correct sports footwear. The three main pronation types are:
- Neutral pronation — the foot rolls inward by a healthy amount during impact
- Overpronation — the foot rolls inward excessively, often putting strain on the ankle and lower leg
- Underpronation (supination) — the foot rolls outward instead of inward, putting strain on the outside of the foot and ankle
Knowing which type you are can dramatically reduce your risk of running injuries — and is one of the most useful pieces of information a gait analysis can give you.
If you'd like to discuss whether a gait assessment would benefit you, get in touch and we'll talk you through what's involved.