Biomechanical Assessments

What is a gait analysis?

A biomechanical assessment or gait analysis, is conducted by a qualified podiatrist. They will evaluate the structure, alignment, and function of your feet, ankles, knees, and hips through a series of tests that assess your mobility and movement.

You will be asked to stand, walk and run on a treadmill and normal floor, with your motion being filmed at various angles for playback and further observation in slow motion. A podiatrist will assess your gait systematically, looking at each joint separately throughout the entire cycle of movement, detecting any deviations from normal.

This type of assessment is particularly beneficial for individuals who are experiencing recurring pain in the feet, ankles, knees, or hips.

Active people or professional athletes may want to prevent a sports injury or recuperate from an accident or operation.

It is also beneficial for people with diabetes or disabilities wanting to manage their condition and improve their circulation.

The ultimate aim is to better understand how your body moves and works, so that we can find a solution that will treat the underlying cause of any foot or lower limb pain or problems.

I have a painful heel when walking!

A biomechanical asessment or gait analysis can help us find solutions to reduce your pain while walking and improve your overall comfort and mobility.

Are you experiencing any of the following?

sore heel from walking
foot aches when walking
pain on the top of the foot when walking
painful ball of the foot when walking
toes painful when walking
pain at the top of the leg when walking
arch of foot is sore when walking
bottom of feet are sore when walking

If you are experiencing foot pain of any type, or pain in your ankles, legs, hips or lower back while walking, Healthy Sole Podiatry can help diagnose what might be causing your pain with a functional gait analysis.

There may be a foot condition or other structural issue that may be impacting your overall comfort and mobility and if left untreated, could lead to long-term hip or back pain issues.

Some of the conditions may include:

Overpronation
Underpronation/supination
Flat feet
Other foot-related or biomechanical conditions

With the information determined during the biomechanical assessment, we can determine the best course of action. For example, we may prescribe orthotics, podiatrist-recommended shoes, or specific strengthening exercises to improve alignment and reduce discomfort.

The ultimate objective is to reduce the pain you are experiencing and improve your quality of life.

Running gait analysis

A running gait analysis is a detailed examination of how you run, analysing each phase of your stride to identify any abnormalities. We will look at foot strike, body alignment, joint movement and weight distribution.

During a running gait analysis, the runner will be observed running on a treadmill, with video technology to capture and analyse their movements from various angles in slow motion. Advanced gait analysis includes pressure mapping or motion analysis software that provides detailed insights into foot strike patterns, pronation (inward roll of the foot), supination (outward roll), and the overall rhythm of the stride.

From this analysis, our podiatrist can identify inefficient or harmful movement patterns that may be causing pain, discomfort, or could cause potential injuries.

A running gait analysis can also improve performance! Improve your technique, running speed and race finish times. Or if you play team sports, improve your stamina and endurance.

Healthy Sole Podiatry can assist you with recovery from injuries or operations. Gait testing will inform a treatment plan that will help you get back in the game, faster.

Benefits of running gait testing

1. Injury Prevention

We can identify biomechanical issues or gait problems, such as overpronation or excessive impact, that may increase the risk of running injuries like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, or stress fractures.

2. Performance Optimization

We will provide recommendations for footwear, running technique adjustments, or strengthening exercises that may improve efficiency and speed.

3. Customized Treatment Plans

If you have recurrent pain or existing injuries, a running gait analysis will help find the best rehabilitation program for your body, addressing specific weaknesses or imbalances.

Who can book a running assessment?

Runners of all levels are welcome. From beginners who want to start with proper technique, through to seasoned athletes looking to gain a performance edge.

Knee pain while running, not walking

If you’re experiencing knee pain while running, but not while walking, there could be a number of potential causes.

Book a running gait assessment today and we will work out the issue quickly, so that you can enjoy running pain free.

Gait analysis for running shoes

Our podiatrists can conduct a gait analysis to help you decide on the best running shoes for your foot type, running style and to help improve your performance.

We have a list of recommended running shoes for:

normal feet – cushion neutral running shoes
mildly pronated feet – mild motion control running shoes
moderately pronated feet – moderate motion control running shoes
overpronated feet – maximum motion control running shoes

Gait problems – to solutions

Post-assessment, we will present you with a tailored treatment plan to address your unique biomechanical needs. From rehabilitation exercises to custom orthotic solutions, we will recommend a clear action plan.

You treatment management plan may include:

Rehabilitation exercises, including strengthening and stretching
Stride adjustments
Footwear advice
Padding
Strapping
Orthoses – off the shelf or custom made orthotics, depending on your needs
Dry needling
Referrals for further investigation if necessary, such as an ultrasound or X-ray

Why choose Healthy Sole Podiatry for your biomechanical assessment

Expertise: Our team of specialists bring years of experience and a deep understanding of biomechanical dynamics.

Technology: Leveraging the latest trend in podiatric technology, we ensure accurate assessments and effective treatment plans.

Personalised Care: We believe in a patient-centred approach where your comfort and needs are at the forefront.

If your feet are unhappy, you’re unhappy.

Don’t let foot problems hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. At Healthy Sole Podiatry, we’re dedicated to providing the best foot care in Launceston. Experience the difference with Healthy Sole Podiatry. Book an appointment below and take the first step towards happy, healthy feet.

Podiatrist near me

We are conveniently located at 100 Forster Street Invermay, Launceston.

Plenty of accessible, off-street parking. Click the Google map for directions.

We look forward to your visit.