Video Running Gait Analysis
What is a Video Running Gait Analysis?
Why should you do a gait analysis?
Every individual is different, which means their running style is also unique. An individualized running assessment can highlight what your specific deficits and asymmetries may be in order to form a customized training program. A running analysis can be beneficial for many reasons. It can provide insight on how to decrease stress on injured body structures; It can provide insight on asymmetries which may lead to an inefficient gait pattern; It can let you know your risk of
developing injuries and how to prevent these injuries in the future; It can help you reach your running goals.
What are common atypical running patterns?
- Overstride: when your foot lands to far forward causing increased lower extremity loading and stress
- Collapsing: When your lower body moved excessively inward toward the midline leading to excessive knee valgum and ankle pronation
- Weaving: When a runner lands with their foot crossing over midline. It will look like your legs are criss crossing. This leads to shearing and pulling of your foot into pronation.
- Bouncing: Runners who’s bodies move excessively upwards and downwards causing increased force generation when hitting the ground.
- Glute Amnesiac: Decreased glute activation that leads to an overly extended posture. This leads to increased moment arm and stress to structures on the front of your knee.
What type of runners would benefit from a running analysis?
- Runners with an injury - current or past
- Runners who want to run faster or with more efficiency
- Runners who want to prevent future injury
- Runners who want maintain the ability to run for a long time
What Happens Next?
Your therapist will use the information from your running analysis to identify problems including decreased flexibility, decreased strength, improper foot strike and load dispersion, and cadence. You may fall into one or more of the described running patterns above. This information will allow for the introduction of new exercises and interventions to help improve form and efficiency, as well as, decrease potential risk of injury. Your individualized program may include proper dynamic warm up, a shoe recommendation, and cadence training.
If you have any questions or are interested in participating in a video gait analysis, feel free to contact us at any time!
