A gait analysis is a detailed look at how you walk. There is a lot of information that we can determine from analyzing how a person walks. The mechanisms by which the foot loads can affect the rest of the body. It is for this reason that it is very important that we consider a persons foundation - their feet - when we are looking at how the rest of the body is functioning. Gait Scans are a revolutionary new technology to improve analysis of problems and prescription of orthotics.
What is a Foot Scan?
A foot scan is the method by which we examine the biomechanics of the feet. We use the GAIT SCAN SYSTEM for gait analysis. This 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. It measures and analyses the way a person walks because how we walk can cause 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 by having a foot scan. For example by looking at the results of a person's foot scan we would be able to better understand why a person may be suffering recurrent pain, clumsiness or poor posture. 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 tell us why these things are likely occurring. The foot scan would be reviewed with the Physiotherapist on your next visit.
If there is a problem discovered with the feet, what is the next step?
The best solution is usually to counter problems with the feet is with a combination of Physiotherapy Treatment, An Individualised Prescribed Exercise Programme and either Dynamic or Rigid Orthotics.
Remember the story/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. Our Treatment Strategies and Orthotics are designed to counter any biomechanical problems in the feet and are the first step towards solving your overall biomechanical health.
