Gait / Running Analysis
Most of us go about our day without giving much thought to how we walk or run. But when pain, discomfort, or a stubborn injury interfere with movement, it becomes clear just how important proper biomechanics are. At Somatic Physical Therapy, we offer specialized Gait and Running Analysis to uncover the underlying issues contributing to your symptoms and help you regain pain-free movement.
What Is Gait and Running Analysis?
Gait and running analysis is a detailed evaluation of how your body moves as you walk, run, or exercise. Through a series of assessments, this analysis identifies biomechanical abnormalities, functional muscle weaknesses, and any areas that may be prone to injury.
Several factors influence the way we move, including posture, muscle balance, and even our choice of footwear. When these elements are misaligned, they can lead to inefficient movement patterns, increased risk of injury, and persistent discomfort or fatigue. By closely examining your technique, Dr. Nick Long, a movement expert, can pinpoint the root causes of your issues and provide targeted solutions.
Why Is Gait and Running Analysis Important?
Your movement patterns have a direct impact on your overall health and well-being. Subtle misalignments or imbalances can often go unnoticed, but over time, they can lead to chronic pain, frequent injuries, or reduced performance in exercise and daily activities.
With gait and running analysis, we can:
- Identify biomechanical inefficiencies that may be causing unnecessary strain
- Detect functional muscle weaknesses contributing to instability or poor posture
- Address patterns of movement that increase your risk of injury
- Enhance muscle efficiency for better performance and reduced fatigue
Whether you’re a competitive runner, a weekend warrior, or simply looking to enjoy everyday activities without discomfort, understanding and improving your gait can make a world of difference.
What Does the analysis
Include?
Dr. Nick’s Gait and Running Analysis is a comprehensive process tailored to meet your unique needs. During the evaluation, the following areas are carefully assessed:
- Posture: Proper alignment is the foundation of effective movement. By analyzing your posture, we can correct imbalances that may be impacting your gait or contributing to pain.
- Gait Technique: This includes an in-depth look at how you walk and run. We assess stride length, cadence, foot strike, and other elements to identify inefficiencies or abnormalities.
- Footwear Selection: The right shoes can make a significant difference in how you move. Recommendations are provided based on your specific biomechanics to improve support and comfort.
These insights help to prevent falls and injuries, improve balance and stability, and ensure your muscles work together more efficiently.
The Somatic Difference
Dr. Nick has extensive experience in movement science and gait analysis, offering unparalleled expertise in this field. His patient-centered approach ensures that your treatment plan is personalized to address your unique concerns and goals. By integrating your evaluation results with a customized therapy program, we can help you achieve better mobility, reduced pain, and optimal performance.
Whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with persistent discomfort, or seeking to improve athletic performance, Somatic Physical Therapy is here to guide you.
Take the First Step to Better Movement
Don’t ignore the subtle signs of misalignment or inefficient movement. Contact Somatic Physical Therapy today to schedule your Gait and Running Analysis. Together, we’ll uncover the key to moving more comfortably and confidently—one step at a time. Your stronger, pain-free future starts here!
Take the first step towards a pain-free life.