#nhrunners

 November 30, 2016

What to expect during your gait analysis

By Christine Shaw, PT, DPT

 Discussion

First, I need to know what brings you into the clinic. Is this a “healthy” or “unhealthy” gait analysis? It is important for me to know whether you have been running pain free, have a history of injury or are currently returning from an injury. Perhaps you are new to running. We will also discuss your goals and current training habits.

 Movement Assessment

This is an essential part of your running analysis. Abnormalities found during this screening are often reflected in your running form. You will be taken through a series of movements that test your flexibility, strength, mobility and balance. This will help me identify any abnormal movement patterns and their causes.

 Video Analysis

You will be filmed while running on the treadmill. Your gait will be captured from several angles. You may be asked to run at varying speeds based on your individual goals. For example, I may want to observe you while running at your training pace and race pace. You will be running between 5-15 minutes, depending on your goals and current ability. Walk breaks can be easily incorporated.

 Review and Recommendations

I will analyze and review your running mechanics using specialized software. You will be given recommendations on running technique, footwear, and/or correctional exercises and drills that will improve your form and prevent injury.

 Should I book a follow up session?

My goal is for you to leave your session with a good understanding of what you need to work on and how to begin doing that.

 If you are interested in reaching your full potential, you may find that you want to schedule follow up sessions. This would allow us to spend more time on areas that require further attention. Usually your follow up sessions will be a combination and progression of flexibility, strength and gait retraining exercises. If you require rehabilitation from an injury,  you may be referred to our physical therapy program.

 It is important to remember that improvements in flexibility, strength and running mechanics happen over time. You may need to master one set of exercises before moving on to the next. The physical act of running is a skill: it takes practice, repetition and reinforcement to improve your technique!