What Is Gait Analysis?
Gait Analysis is a structured assessment of how you walk or run. It examines foot placement, stride pattern, joint motion, balance, and coordination during movement. A clinician may observe gait directly or use video to identify movement patterns that relate to posture, muscle control, joint mobility, or exercise planning.
Quick Facts About Gait Analysis
Category
Movement assessment
Used for
Walking and running pattern review
Common confusion
Not limited to foot alignment
Also called
Walking analysis, Gait assessment
Often discussed with
Corrective Exercise Therapy
Key Takeaways About Gait Analysis
- It examines movement patterns, not just foot position.
- Video can reveal timing and coordination changes.
- It is not the same as a foot-only exam.
How Gait Analysis Works
Gait Analysis starts with observing how the body moves during walking or running. The review may consider foot contact, knee and hip motion, pelvic control, trunk position, arm movement, and balance. Video can help slow the movement so timing and coordination are easier to examine.
Related glossary terms: Biomechanics, Posture Assessment, Joint Mobility.
The findings are interpreted as movement patterns, not as a diagnosis by themselves. A clinician may compare both sides of the body and relate observed motion to biomechanics or posture assessment. In Corrective Exercise Therapy, the results can guide exercise selection, movement cues, and progress checks. A change in walking pattern may reflect limited joint mobility, reduced muscle control, discomfort, or a learned compensation.
From the Advanced Injury Care Clinic team
When we perform Gait Analysis, we watch the full movement pattern and note how the feet, knees, hips, pelvis, and trunk work together. We use those observations to shape Corrective Exercise Therapy, then check whether movement quality changes as exercises and cues are introduced.
Gait Analysis in Practice: A Real-World Example
A person recovering from an auto accident may shorten one side of the stride and shift weight away from discomfort. Gait Analysis can help identify that pattern so Corrective Exercise Therapy addresses balance, control, and coordinated movement.
Related Services
Related Terms
Biomechanics
Biomechanics is the study of how living bodies move and respond to force. It examines the…
Posture Assessment
Posture Assessment is a structured review of how your body aligns and moves during standing, sitting…
Joint Mobility
Joint Mobility is the available movement at a joint and the ease with which that joint…
Proprioception
Proprioception is the body's ability to sense joint position, movement, and force without relying on sight…
Advanced Injury Care Clinic
Have Questions About Gait Analysis?
Contact Advanced Injury Care Clinic for practical guidance on Gait Analysis and related chiropractor work in Brentwood.