Gait Analysis

Gait analysis is the systematic study of human locomotion, particularly the manner in which individuals walk or run. It involves observing, measuring, and analyzing various aspects of gait patterns to gain insights into biomechanical, physiological, and pathological characteristics. 

 

Understanding gait, helps in:

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• Health Assessment: By providing valuable insights into an individual's overall health, abnormalities in gait may indicate underlying musculoskeletal, neurological, or cardiovascular conditions. Identifying these abnormalities early can facilitate timely intervention and treatment.

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• Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation: By analysing gait patterns, healthcare professionals can identify bio-mechanical issues or weaknesses that may predispose individuals to injuries. Customized interventions can then be implemented to address these issues and prevent further injury.

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• Footwear Design: Understanding gait patterns helps in designing suitable footwear for people. Customising the correct raises and off-loading points will help correct posture and gait while customising upper patterns.

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• Orthotic and Prosthetic Design: Gait analysis plays a vital role in designing orthotic devices (such as braces or shoe inserts) and prosthetics. By analysing a person's gait, orthotists and prosthetists can create custom devices that provide optimal support and functionality, thereby improving mobility and quality of life.​

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• Monitoring Disease Progression: Gait analysis can be used to monitor the progression of certain neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis. Changes in gait patterns over time may serve as indicators of disease progression or treatment efficacy, enabling healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans accordingly.

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• Fall Risk Assessment: Abnormal gait patterns are often associated with an increased risk of falls, particularly among older adults. By assessing gait characteristics, healthcare professionals can identify individuals at higher risk of falls and implement preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

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• Performance Optimization: Understanding gait is crucial for athletes and individuals involved in physical activities. Optimizing gait mechanics can enhance performance and reduce the risk of overuse injuries. By analyzing gait patterns, coaches and trainers can identify areas for improvement and tailor training programs to enhance efficiency and reduce strain on the body.