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Gait Analysis

Running Gait Analysis being shown to patient

Run Strong, Run Safe: How Gait Analysis Can Help Prevent Injuries

For many, running is a fantastic way to stay active, improve physical and mental well-being, and explore the outdoors. However, running can also put stress on your body, leading to injuries if your form isn’t optimal. Here’s where gait analysis comes in.

What is Gait Analysis?

Gait analysis is a comprehensive assessment of your running form. It involves observing your running patterns, analyzing your posture and movement, both in person and from video recordings of you running. As part of my osteopathic studies I trained in biomechanics and movement analysis. Running is also one of my passions and so I have also done several post graduate courses in running injuries. I am also a qualified England Athletics Coach in Running Fitness so I have a lot of experience helping runners improve their form.

How Can Gait Analysis Help Prevent Running Injuries?

  • Biomechanical weaknesses: These could be imbalances in muscle strength, flexibility limitations, or improper foot strike patterns.
  • Overstriding: This involves landing on your heel further ahead of your body, placing excessive stress on your ankles and knees.
  • Underpronation or overpronation: These terms describe how your foot rolls inward when you land. Imbalances in this movement can lead to shin splints, knee pain, and other issues.

Benefits of Gait Analysis:

  • Early identification of potential problems: Addressing issues before they turn into injuries can save you time, pain, and frustration.
  • Improved running form: An osteopath can provide personalized recommendations and exercises to correct any identified weaknesses and improve your overall running efficiency.
  • Reduced risk of injury: By optimizing your running form, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing common running injuries.
  • Enhanced performance: A more efficient running form can translate to improved speed, endurance, and overall enjoyment of running.

Who Can Benefit from Gait Analysis?

Gait analysis is beneficial for everyone, regardless of your running experience or level. It’s especially valuable for:

  • New runners: Learn proper form from the beginning to minimize injury risk.
  • Experienced runners: Identify any inefficiencies that might be hindering your performance or leading to recurrent injuries.
  • Returning from injury: Ensure you’re using optimal form to avoid re-injury.

Gait analysis is a valuable tool for runners of all levels. By taking a proactive approach to identify and address potential problems in your running form, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury and enjoy running to its fullest.

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