Maximizing your Stride with Running Gait Analysis

By Dr. Verity Stow
QubeCore Sports & Rehab Chiropractor

Not many of us are taught how to run correctly, as a child or as an adult. Not knowing how to run correctly leads to pain, injuries and frustrations. That’s where Dr. Verity comes in. She provides personalized running and walking form evaluations with rehabilitation exercises catered specifically for you.

A gait analysis is a method used to assess the way a person walks or runs. It involves the measurement, evaluation, and interpretation of various aspects of a person’s movement, including the alignment and motion of the legs, hips, pelvis, and trunk. A gait analysis is typically performed by a healthcare professional or a specialist trained in biomechanics, and it can be used to identify abnormalities, imbalances, or inefficiencies in a person’s movement pattern.

During a gait analysis, the person being assessed is usually asked to walk or run on a treadmill or overground surface while their movement is recorded using video or motion capture technology. The recorded data is then analyzed to identify any deviations from normal movement patterns and to identify any potential contributing factors, such as muscle weakness or joint stiffness. Based on the results of the analysis, the healthcare professional or specialist may recommend interventions such as physical therapy, orthotics, or corrective exercises to help improve the person’s gait and reduce the risk of injury. The new running form will be practiced multiple times before you leave to ensure that you feel comfortable.

A gait analysis can be helpful for a variety of individuals, including:

  1. Those who experience pain or discomfort when walking or running
  2. Those who have suffered an injury or undergone surgery that affects their ability to walk or run
  3. Athletes looking to improve their performance or prevent injuries
  4. Have a medical condition that affects their gait, such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease
  5. Elders at risk for falls or have a history of falls
  6. Children with developmental delays or motor coordination issues

Overall, gait analysis can be a valuable tool in improving movement patterns and reducing the risk of injury, particularly for those who have experienced pain or discomfort when walking or running or those looking to optimize their athletic performance.

QubeCore Sports & Rehab offers Chiropractic services in North Vancouver for a wide range of conditions. To book your appointment with Dr. Verity Stow, call 604.210.2274 or simply book online by clicking HERE.