Did you know that a simple walk can tell you more about the state of your body than many imaging tests? Gait biomechanics is a field that analyses the way we move! From the alignment of your feet to the movement of your shoulders. How you walk, can directly affect health Your spine, hips and knees. Do you know what your stride says about you?
Gait biomechanics - more than just the way we walk
Gait biomechanics involves analysing the movement of the lower limbs, pelvic alignment, spinal rotation and even the work of the feet during each step. If any of these elements are not working properly, overloads can occur in other parts of the body.
The feet are the foundation - if they are misaligned, for example due to flat feet, valgus or unequal limb lengths, the whole posture changes. Over time, this can lead to pain lumbar spinecervical, as well as problems with knees or hips.
Gait biomechanics can identify these abnormalities and find their source. Interestingly, many people are not aware of an abnormal gait pattern until chronic pain conditions develop.
Computerised gait analysis - how does it work?
One of the most accurate ways to assess biomechanics is through a computerised gait analysis. The patient walks through a special platform with sensors that record foot pressure on the ground, ground contact time, stride length and many other parameters. The image of movement is often enhanced with a video recording, which allows accurate observation of joint function and body axis.
Through such examinations, it is possible not only to detect abnormalities in movement, but also to predict the risk of injury. This is valuable information especially for athletes, older people and those returning to activity after injury.
Read also: Computerised foot examination makes it possible to assess, how the way you walk affects your spine and joints. This is the basis for analysing how your gait biomechanics work.
What can gait biomechanics analysis detect?
Gait biomechanics reveals, among other things:
- difference in length of lower limbs,
- inappropriate rolling of the foot (e.g. supination or pronation),
- excessive strain on one side of the body,
- imbalances,
- compensatory adjustments of the knees, hips or spine.
An abnormal gait can also be the result of previous injuries, poor sports technique or even a sedentary lifestyle. Early diagnosis makes it possible to implement appropriate therapy - e.g. individually tailored orthotics, rehabilitation or a change in running technique.
Gait biomechanics and spinal pain
Few people connect back pain with footwork. And it is they, as the first point of contact between the body and the ground, that have a huge impact on the alignment of the entire silhouette.
When the foot does not work properly - for example, the longitudinal arch collapses, there is overpronation or uneven pressure - the rest of the body has to compensate. This can lead to pelvic torsion, anterior tilt or posterior tilt and, consequently, overload of the lumbar or cervical spine.
Gait biomechanics shows these relationships in black and white. This makes it possible to identify the cause of pain and to plan treatment not only for the symptoms but, above all, for their source.
Individual orthopaedic insoles support the correct positioning of the feet, relieve pressure on the joints and improve the biomechanics of gait. Tailored individually, they help for the treatment of back, knee and foot pain.
Who is the gait biomechanics study for?
Gait biomechanics is a useful tool not only for professional athletes. Gait analysis is recommended for:
- seniors - who are at risk of falls, balance disorders and foot deformities,
- people after orthopaedic injuries and operations - e.g. after ligament reconstruction, endoprostheses or fractures,
- people with back or knee pain, the cause of which may lie in the feet,
- children and young people with postural defects,
- physically active - for the prevention of overload and the improvement of movement technique.
Early detection of gait disorders can prevent more serious problems in the future. It is an investment not only in walking comfort, but more importantly in the health of the spine and joints.
