Video Gait Analysis: Unlocking Movement!
- Gait Way Podiatry
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
Unlocking Movement: The Power of Video Gait Analysis
Have you ever wondered why your child might walk differently, trip more often than others, or complain of sore legs after a short walk? Or maybe you’re an athlete trying to improve your performance or recover from an injury. One of the most effective tools for understanding how someone moves is video gait analysis, a modern approach that brings science and technology together to assess the way we walk or run.
What is Video Gait Analysis?
Video gait analysis is a method of observing and recording how a person walks or runs, using high-speed cameras and specialised software. By reviewing slow-motion footage and measuring movement patterns, experts can detect subtle abnormalities that are often invisible to the naked eye.
Why It Matters
Gait—the way we walk—can reveal a lot about the health and function of our muscles, joints, and bones. Small irregularities in movement can lead to bigger issues if left unaddressed. Video gait analysis offers a non-invasive, detailed look at how the body moves in real time.
Benefits of Video Gait Analysis
Pinpoints abnormalities in walking or running patterns
Helps diagnose underlying issues like flat feet, overpronation, or muscle imbalances
Guides treatment plans such as orthotics, physiotherapy, or strength training
Monitors progress over time with visual evidence
Improves athletic performance by refining movement efficiency
Who Can Benefit?
Children with developmental concerns, balance issues, or unusual walking styles
Athletes looking to optimise their stride or prevent injuries
People recovering from injury or surgery who need to retrain their movement
Anyone experiencing chronic pain in the feet, knees, hips, or lower back
What to Expect
A typical session involves walking or running on a treadmill or pressure mat while being recorded and filmed from multiple angles. The footage is then reviewed frame-by-frame to analyse posture, stride length, foot strike, and joint movement. Based on this analysis, a tailored intervention plan can be created.
Final Thoughts
Video gait analysis offers a clear, evidence-based path to better movement. Whether you're a parent concerned about your child’s development, an athlete striving for peak performance, or someone seeking relief from pain, this tool can uncover the root of the problem and guide the way to lasting improvement.
If you think you or your child could benefit from video gait analysis, talk to your podiatrist.
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