In the world of sports and physical therapy, understanding how you move is crucial for preventing injuries and optimising performance. At Lambert Sports Clinic, we use advanced gait analysis techniques to provide insights that can transform your approach to movement and training.
What is Gait Analysis?
Gait analysis is a detailed study of how an individual walks or runs. It involves observing and measuring various aspects of movement, including:
- Foot strike patterns
- Joint angles and movements
- Muscle activation sequences
- Body posture and alignment
- Timing and coordination of movement
Key Benefits of Gait Analysis:
- Identify biomechanical inefficiencies
- Predict and prevent potential injuries
- Improve athletic performance
- Guide rehabilitation processes
- Inform footwear and orthotic choices
The Science Behind Gait Analysis
At Lambert Sports Clinic, our gait analysis combines cutting-edge technology with expert interpretation. Here's how we conduct a comprehensive gait assessment:
1. Visual Observation
Our experienced physiotherapists begin with a visual assessment, observing your movement patterns from multiple angles.
2. Video Analysis
We use high-speed cameras to capture your gait in slow motion, allowing for detailed frame-by-frame analysis.
3. Pressure Mapping
Specialised treadmills with built-in pressure sensors provide data on foot strike patterns and weight distribution.
4. 3D Motion Capture
For advanced analysis, we use motion capture technology to create a 3D model of your movement, providing precise measurements of joint angles and body positions.
5. Muscle Activity Monitoring
In some cases, we use electromyography (EMG) to measure muscle activation patterns during movement.
Common Gait Imbalances and Their Implications
Through our extensive experience in gait analysis, we've identified several common imbalances that can lead to injuries or reduced performance:
Overpronation
Excessive inward rolling of the foot during landing can lead to:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shin splints
- Knee pain
Supination
Insufficient inward rolling of the foot can result in:
- Ankle sprains
- Stress fractures
- Iliotibial band syndrome
Overstriding
Landing with your foot too far in front of your body can cause:
- Increased impact forces
- Hamstring strains
- Lower back pain
Weak Hip Stabilisers
Insufficient hip strength and control can lead to:
- Knee valgus (inward collapse)
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Hip and lower back issues
Correcting Gait Imbalances
Once we've identified any gait imbalances, we develop a personalised plan to address them. This may include:
1. Targeted Strengthening Exercises
We prescribe specific exercises to address muscle weaknesses or imbalances that contribute to gait issues.
2. Flexibility and Mobility Work
Improving range of motion in key joints can often resolve movement restrictions that affect gait.
3. Technique Drills
We teach you movement drills and cues to help you adopt more efficient movement patterns.
4. Footwear Recommendations
Based on your gait analysis, we can advise on the most suitable type of footwear for your foot type and activity.
5. Custom Orthotics
In some cases, we may recommend custom orthotics to provide additional support and correct alignment issues.
Gait Analysis for Performance Enhancement
Beyond injury prevention, gait analysis can significantly improve athletic performance:
Running Economy
By optimising your running form, we can help you become more efficient, allowing you to run faster or longer with less energy expenditure.
Power Output
Improving your gait can lead to better force production and transfer, enhancing performance in sports that require explosive movements.
Sport-Specific Adaptations
We can analyse and optimise movement patterns specific to your sport, whether it's the swing in golf, the stride in sprinting, or the footwork in tennis.
Who Can Benefit from Gait Analysis?
Gait analysis isn't just for elite athletes. It can be beneficial for:
- Runners of all levels looking to improve performance or prevent injuries
- Individuals recovering from lower limb injuries or surgeries
- People experiencing chronic lower back, hip, knee, or foot pain
- Athletes in sports that involve repetitive lower body movements
- Older adults looking to improve balance and reduce fall risk
When to Consider Gait Analysis
You might benefit from a gait analysis if:
- You're experiencing recurrent lower body injuries
- You're planning to significantly increase your training volume
- You're returning to sport after an injury or surgery
- You're looking to improve your athletic performance
- You have chronic pain that hasn't responded to other treatments
Take the First Step Towards Optimal Movement
Ready to unlock the secrets of your gait and transform your movement? Book a comprehensive gait analysis session with our expert team at Lambert Sports Clinic.
Book Your Gait Analysis Today
Sharon Edwards
Senior Physiotherapist
Sharon Edwards brings 30 years of physiotherapy experience to Lambert Sports Clinic. She specialises in advanced biomechanical assessments and has helped countless athletes and individuals optimise their movement patterns for better performance and injury prevention.