Understanding and improving the way we walk is important for people of all ages and mobility. A gait assessment is a valuable tool for athletes striving to enhance performance, older folks who want to preserve their mobility, and people experiencing balance issues from a neurological or vestibular condition. By analyzing the way we move, these assessments provide insights that lead to personalized interventions for better function and safety.
What is a gait assessment?
Your gait is every movement, angle, muscle, and posture that you have as you walk or run. It includes how long your strides are, how wide apart your footfalls are, how your upper body is positioned while you walk, and how your joints move and flex.
There are different types of gait assessments that people might seek. A functional gait assessment focuses on mobility issues for people having trouble with basic movement, whereas a performance or running gait analysis gives people insight into their highest level of exertion and performance while running or walking.
A gait assessment involves a thorough examination of how you walk or run, which can indicate inefficiencies, pain points, or stability issues. It begins with a visual analysis where a qualified professional, such as a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist, observes your walking pattern on a treadmill or in a controlled environment. During the evaluation, they will likely employ visualization technology like motion capture or pressure sensors to gather data about your gait.
This process yields objective information about your walking mechanics, revealing insights into stride length, foot placement, and balance. By understanding these elements, we can identify the root cause of any discomfort or imbalance and apply therapeutic approaches to heal or strengthen those issues.
Reasons to get a gait assessment
A gait assessment can benefit a wide range of people, including:
- Athletes wanting to enhance their performance by improving their running gait
- People with balance problems needing strategies to prevent falls
- Elderly individuals experiencing difficulties with balance or mobility
- Those recovering from injuries or surgery
- Individuals with chronic pain related to walking or standing
- Anyone aiming to improve posture and overall walking efficiency
Our physical therapists are experienced with people from all walks of life with all kinds of goals from treatment, which allows us to tailor treatment plans accordingly even with as wide-ranging as their needs might be. So whether you’re managing a specific condition or seeking to enhance your daily movement, a gait assessment can offer valuable insights and solutions.
What to expect from your gait evaluation appointment
On the day of your gait evaluation, it’s important to come prepared to ensure a smooth and effective appointment. Bring any necessary medical records or information about you or your loved one’s current physical condition. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy movement, and bring any supportive devices you typically use, like orthotics or braces.
The assessment will begin with a conversation with your physical therapist, where you’ll discuss your concerns and goals. Next, you’ll simply be asked to walk as naturally as you can while we observe and record your movements.
After the observation, your therapist will provide feedback and discuss their findings with you. Based on these results, they will suggest strategies and exercises to enhance your walking pattern. This collaborative approach ensures that you leave with actionable steps to improve your mobility.
Schedule a gait evaluation today
Taking the first step towards better mobility is as simple as making a phone call. Find one of our local physical therapy clinic locations to arrange an appointment for yourself or a loved one. Whether you’re aiming to prevent future issues or enhance your current performance, a gait assessment can offer valuable insights and actionable guidance.
