What Is Gait Analysis?
Gait analysis is a detailed assessment of how you walk or run, aimed at identifying movement patterns and any potential issues. It examines your body mechanics to detect problems in muscles, joints, or feet. At UMG Physical Therapy in Columbia, MD, this evaluation helps provide valuable insights into improving mobility and addressing underlying concerns. Whether you're a runner seeking to enhance performance or someone looking to move more comfortably, these assessments offer a valuable tool for understanding your movement patterns and making necessary adjustments for improved functionality.
How Does Gait Analysis Work?
During an evaluation, a physical therapist will closely observe and record your walking or running patterns. Special equipment may be used to capture the alignment of your feet, knees, hips, and other key areas. For those undergoing running gait analysis, the focus is on stride, posture, and how your feet interact with the ground. If you opt for a walking gait analysis, the evaluation can reveal foot alignment, imbalances, and other factors contributing to discomfort. A foot gait analysis zeroes in on how your foot mechanics affect your overall movement. This detailed data allows your therapist to create a customized treatment plan, helping you improve movement and avoid future issues.
What Are the Benefits of Gait Analysis?
Evaluating your walking or running mechanics offers numerous advantages for both athletes and individuals dealing with discomfort. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Prevents injuries: Identifying movement problems early can help reduce the risk of common injuries, like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and knee pain, particularly for runners.
- Boosts efficiency: Running gait analysis can improve your form, making each stride more effective and reducing unnecessary strain.
- Enhances mobility: Walking gait analysis can highlight imbalances, leading to improved balance and ease of movement over time.
- Reduces pain: Foot gait analysis can pinpoint the root cause of pain, enabling targeted treatments for discomfort in the feet, knees, hips, or back.
- Personalized treatment: The insights gained from these evaluations allow physical therapists to customize therapy programs based on your specific needs.
UMG Physical Therapy Reviews
Excellent! - My mom arms has been in pain for some time. Kevin was able to diagnose the problem and help with a treatment plan. Kevin has great bedside manners and is great at what he does! Would really recommend!!
Forever Grateful for Dr. Ung - My mother suffered a brain hemorrhage and all feelings and control of her left side were gone. She underwent a successful craniotomy and we were told the road to recovery would be tough. It was disheartening as my mother needed full help to even shift in her bed, to be held while sitting so she wouldn’t topple over, and she needed two people to lift her to use the bedside commode. Literally, she couldn’t lift a finger (her left side) and due to neurological issues caused by the hemorrhage, this affected her right side as well.In less than two months of working with my mother, Dr. Ung and other PT & OT helped my mother to become semi-independent. She was able to use a walker, walking short distances safely, and to take care of her basic needs, like using the toilet with little assistance. Dr. Ung was patient and compassionate and explained everything as he went along. It was truly amazing to see him work with my mother and the transformation was like magic! Thank you so much, Dr. Ung!
Highly recommend - I’m so grateful for Dr. Ung for helping my mom with her chronic knee pain. Despite the language barrier, he found a way to communicate clearly and make sure my mom understood what to do. He was patient with her and really made her feel comfortable. My mom’s pain has improved and she’s moving around much better now!
Awesome and will come back! - Dr. Ung treated me for my lower back pain and sciatica multiple times! I left with with way less pain and was able to walk and play sports again. Thank You
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Schedule A Consultation
At UMG Physical Therapy in Columbia, MD, we provide thorough walking, running, and foot gait analysis to help you move with confidence and comfort. Whether you're looking to improve your running form or address discomfort while walking, our team offers the expertise to guide you toward better mobility. Schedule an appointment today to learn how we can help you achieve healthier movement and a more active lifestyle.