Gait Scan Explained – What is a Computerized Gait Scan & How it works

In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about receiving a gait scan. We’ll also address how a gait scan works, whether you will benefit from custom made orthotics, the process of how we obtain the information required and how the process will work towards making you feel better.

Midlands Physio proudly services the local Kidderminster, Stourport, Bewdley, Stourbridge, Droitwich Spa, Cleobury Mortimer, Worcester and Bridgnorth and Telford communities. Click here to obtain a free information pack about Orthotics. Alternatively, if you want to book your Gait Scan, call us on 01562 754380 or email info@midlandsphysio.co.uk

What is a Gait Scan?

A gait scan, also known as a computerized gait analysis, is a diagnostic tool used by healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists, to assess the way you walk or run. At Midlands Physio, you can receive a computerized gait scan. This diagnostic tool is used by our experienced physiotherapists to identify any abnormalities or imbalances in your gait pattern (your walking pattern), which can help determine if custom-made orthotics would be an appropriate treatment option for you.

There are several groups of people who may benefit from custom-made orthotics, including:

1. Athletes: Many athletes, particularly those involved in high-impact sports, may benefit from custom-made orthotics to provide additional support and prevent injuries. For example, runners may benefit from orthotics that help reduce impact forces and stabilize the foot and ankle.
2. Individuals with foot or ankle pain: People with foot or ankle pain, such as plantar fasciitis or ankle sprains, may benefit from custom-made orthotics to provide additional support and reduce stress on the affected area.
3. Individuals with flat feet or high arches: People with flat feet or high arches may benefit from custom-made orthotics to help correct their foot mechanics and improve their gait.
4. Individuals with diabetic foot ulcers: People with diabetes, who have foot ulcers, may benefit from custom-made orthotics to provide additional cushioning and pressure relief to the affected area. It also helps prevent further damage.
5. Individuals with joint pain or arthritis: People with joint pain or arthritis in the foot or ankle may benefit from custom-made orthotics to provide additional support and reduce stress on the affected joint. 

How does a gait analysis work?

During a computerized gait analysis, you will typically walk or run on a specialized mat that contains pressure sensors. These sensors measure the pressure distribution and timing of your foot strikes as you walk or run. This data is then collected by a computer program, which produces a visual representation of your gait pattern.

In the upcoming video, Sophie from Midlands Physio will explain in detail the process of determining if custom-made orthotics would be appropriate for you.

Gait Scan at Midlands Physio

Learn more about how we conduct a gait scan at Midlands Physio. To determine if you would benefit from custom-made orthotics, you need to take a dynamic walking scan.

1. Firstly, you will be asked to walk across with one foot, your normal walk, over a computerised footplate which takes readings of where your weight goes through your foot during your gait.
2. After 1 or 2 practices, the first reading will be taken and that’s the dynamic walking part of the scan complete.
3. Next, a static scan of your weight distribution in standing will be taken. You will stand shoulder-width apart within the white square on the gait scan, and the practitioner will click a button to complete the scan.
4. When we have got the results from your gait scan, we will show you your personalized report, including:
   • Your left and right foot pressure over time
   • Pictures of what your toes are doing when you are walking and standing still
   • How they’re helping you in each phase of your gait cycle
   • The static picture, from when you’re standing still, of what your heels, toes, and midfoot are doing
   • The dynamic picture of what your feet are doing
   • The line indicating the pressure through your foot throughout your gait cycle
5. Based on the report, we will explain all the options to best relieve the symptoms you’re presenting with, whether it be orthotics, treatment, or a combination of the two.
6. Once we have all the information we need, we can make your custom-made orthotics and send them off to the laboratory.
7. Our senior physiotherapist will confirm your prescription and your custom-made orthotics will be produced for you.
8. We will then schedule a fitting session appointment back at the clinic to ensure your orthotics are comfortable for you before you take them home and start using them.

For more information about custom-made orthotics and their potential benefits, you can download our information pack by clicking on the link below,

Click here to obtain a free information pack about Orthotics.

Alternatively, if you want to book your Gait Scan, call us on 01562 754380 or email info@midlandsphysio.co.uk