Gait Analysis for Better Foot Health

Athletes, retail associates, and emergency personnel aren’t the only ones who spend time on their feet. Whether it’s standing to make dinner, walking through the mall, or shoveling the driveway, our feet are our foundation and need care and attention.

Why get a gait analysis?

Examining the biomechanics of feet is exceptionally important as they can affect how the rest of the body functions. The experts at Back to Health use a system that measures weight distribution at contact points along the bottom of the foot to analyze the way a person walks. This analysis identifies potential problems with the rest of the body including the hips, knees, back and feet, and allows Back to Health team members to identify treatment plans.

What is a gait analysis?

A gait analysis is a detailed look at how you walk. The analysis identifies the mechanisms by which the foot loads can affect the rest of the body. It is for this very reason that we need to consider your foundation – your feet – when we are looking at how the rest of your body is functioning.

What is a foot scan?

A foot scan is the method by which we examine the biomechanics of the feet. We use the Footmaxx system for gait analysis. The Footmaxx system provides a dynamic, weight-bearing computerized assessment of the biomechanics of a person’s feet. The system measures the weight distribution at all contact points along the bottom surface of the foot. Additionally, it measures and analyzes the way a person walks to identify potential problems with the rest of the body.

What does the foot scan tell you?

There is a lot of information that can be retrieved from your foot scan. For example, by looking at the results of the foot scan, we are able to better understand why a person may be suffering from recurring shin splints, knee or hip pain. If a person’s feet are sore first thing in the morning, or they have pain while walking on the balls of their feet, the scan will likely tell us why. The results of your foot scan will be explained to you in a follow-up visit.

If there is a problem discovered with the feet, what is the next step?

The best solution to counter problems with the feet is orthotics. Remember the song, “the foot bone’s connected to the knee bone….”: biomechanical problems with the feet can cause a kinematic chain of events, resulting in aches and pains all the way to your hips and back. Orthotics are designed to counter any biomechanical problems in the feet and are the first step toward solving your overall biomechanical health.

Read more about the Gait Analysis and Biomechanical Assessment on our website. If you want to hear from patients about their experience with custom orthotics, check out the Patient Testimonials page!

Do you have questions? Check out our orthotics FAQ page.

Watch our YouTube videos, including this one about Plantar Fasciitis and different treatment options!

If you have any other questions or concerns about the Gait Analysis, custom orthotics, or other services offered at Back to Health Wellness Centre, please contact us.

Text or call us at (613) 237-3306 or E-mail us at reception@back2health4you.com.