Gait Analysis, Its Process And Methods

Gait analysis is basically an observatory treatment. This approach is used to note gross abnormalities in walking. The treatment is necessary for every Perthian because, walking complexity increases with organic pathology, and therefore, objective analysis becomes crucial. The choice of method is based on the clinical need and financial considerations. Typically, the treatment is a combination of motion and force data which are compiled simultaneously. Let’s take a look how any reputed podiatrist in Perth generally performs gait analysis.

Motion

Motion is a crucial aspect in the treatment of gait analysis. It involves examining 3 joints each in 2 limbs. Most of the gait motion occurs in the sagittal plane and subtle rotations. Rotations of the limb are attenuated when the limb is internally or externally rotated.

A calibration system is used to translate film to real-life dimensions. Angular position of each segment may be determined as well. Angular velocity and acceleration of the limb segments are obtained by mathematical differentiation and smoothing of limb position data. Motion data may be combined with analysis of external forces that act on the body.

External forces

Calculation of joint moments (torque) and reaction forces between segments is dependent on the knowledge of the inertial components of the respective segments (kinematics), body segment parameters, and external forces (kinetics) that affect the body.

The magnitude and distribution of segment masses are based on the joint axes obtained from cadaveric data or mathematical modeling of limb segments. The contact force or the ground reaction applied at the distal segment is measured with a force platform. It is a thin plate which measures forces and moments in 3 dimensions at the foot centre of pressure.

Moments and power

Integration of external force, centre of pressure, unique body segment parameters and motion data yields information on the movements of joints, its power and reaction forces between segments using standard inverse dynamics techniques. The role of muscle groups is inferred from the magnitude and sign of the moments and power at the respective lower extremity joints.

Metabolic and mechanical efficiency

Mechanical work is the integral of force and velocity over time and the product of joint power and joint angular velocity. It includes changes in the mechanical energy within the body links, energy expenditure and changes in link’s energy relative to the centre of mass.

These are the simple processes and methods involved in the treatment with gait analysis. 

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Why Are Sprinters Prone To Injury?

Sprinters are prone to knee pain, cramps, calf stiffness, and hip or ankle pain. Some get multiple areas of injuries, others none at all. Why is this so?

Running injuries are best explained by the concept of “Running Threshold”. There are specific risk factors that will make you more or less prone to certain injuries:

• Strength
• Structure
• Training
• Biomechanics
• Flexibility/ Range of Movement
• Past Medical History

Strength

Strength is a modifiable factor. You can become weaker or stronger, depending on how much effort or strength you're applying to perform a task. In terms of running, strength mainly refers to how well you stabilise or control your joints, but also for your general power to produce speed.

Structure

Structure is largely unchangeable except for reconstructive surgery and other special exceptions. Your feet structure plays a key role in deciding whether you'll meet injury or success. It is recommended to opt for podiatry gait analysis to find out the underlying cause which is often not detectable in open eyes.

Training

Training is an external factor and can be modified. Intense training often needs relaxing sessions. If this is not opted or compromised by some means, a runner can fall into the trap of injury soon. Also, runners must focus on the types of shoes they use.

Biomechanics

This is to determine the appropriate amounts of movement at each joint in all three planes of movement – sagittal, frontal, transverse. Too much or too little movement at these joints when running over long distances can create problems of compensation and overload.

Flexibility

Some people naturally have more flexibility than others. What you do in regular days apart from training will also impact your range of motion. If you stretch, roll, or perhaps are a yoga teacher, it is likely your body will be more flexible.

Past medical history

Past medical history can be anything from previous injuries that you've had, to a genetic disorder that changes your ability to move or build muscle. If you have an achillies tendinopathy, your body heals from these injuries by replacing damaged tissues with weaker collagen fibres than the original. Although you will have still healed from the original injury, that is going to be an area of weakness and risk if overloaded. Injuries often lead to a pathway of compensations that are hard to unravel if you don't know exactly what is going on.

If you are a runner, be sure to hire a professional podiatrist to stay away from injuries and to follow the proper maintenance of your feet.