Gait analysis is the process of evaluating the way you walk or run. The human walking motion, known as the gait cycle, is made up of several repeating movements with each stride. For walking to be smooth and energy-efficient, the joints and muscles throughout your body need to work together in a coordinated way.
When your walking pattern is off, it can lead to feelings of fatigue, unsteadiness, or even an increased risk of falls.
An experienced and skilled therapist will observe a patient walk or run and accurately point out the missing components of Gait or critical abnormalities in the walking cycle.
Analyzing the walking pattern will help the therapist further investigate the abnormalities in joint movement (Range of Motion) or muscle strength that contributes to the faulty walking patterns.
Physical therapists will use this information to design a treatment plan that is very specific to the patient.
An experienced and skilled therapist will observe a patient walk or run and accurately point out the missing components of Gait or critical abnormalities in the walking cycle.
We use cutting-edge motion sensors and gait analysis systems to take a closer look at how you walk, focusing on both the timing and movement patterns of your steps. Through temporospatial analysis, we assess the timing (temporal) and spatial aspects of your gait, while kinematic analysis evaluates how your joints and body segments move as you walk.
Our motion sensors track the bending and straightening of your knees and ankles during each step, helping us identify any imbalances between your right and left sides. They also measure key details like how evenly you bear weight on your feet (stance symmetry), the length of your steps and strides, your walking cadence (steps per minute) and your gait speed. By comparing your results to age-matched averages, we can uncover hidden walking imbalances and determine if you’re at risk of falling.
Beyond diagnosis, this data serves as a vital resource for monitoring your progress and refining your treatment plan. With these insights, we create a path to better balance, safer movement, and improved mobility tailored to your unique needs.
At Asara Physical Therapy and Balance Clinic, we’re dedicated to helping patients rebuild their walking abilities with hands-on care and cutting-edge technology. For those with osteoporosis, frailty, or recovering from injuries, we use advanced body-weight support systems that make it safer to bear weight early in recovery. This not only enhances safety but also boosts confidence, helping patients feel capable and secure as they progress.
Our therapists use the Neurodevelopmental Treatment Approach, a hands-on method that retrains muscles to improve movement patterns. Paired with functional training, this approach helps patients develop better control, strength, and coordination for walking.
We also use video recordings and motion-sensor-powered gait analysis to give patients a clear view of their walking mechanics. This visual feedback helps patients understand their gait patterns and make meaningful adjustments for smoother, more efficient strides.
Training at Asara goes beyond walking in a straight line. We design obstacle courses, simulate uneven terrains, and focus on improving eccentric calf control to help patients confidently navigate ramps and stairs. For those needing agility and balance recovery strategies, we incorporate plyometrics and dynamic speed changes.
For patients struggling to multitask while walking, such as talking or reading directions, we offer dual-task training to enhance focus and improve automatic walking patterns, even in busy or distracting environments.
Our skilled therapists have helped countless patients regain strength, stability, and a balanced, confident gait. At Asara, every step you take brings you closer to feeling stronger and more independent.