Gait Analysis
Definition
The systematic evaluation of human walking or running pattern. Observational gait analysis examines stride length, step width, cadence, foot contact pattern, pelvic rotation, trunk lean, arm swing, and timing of each gait phase. Instrumented gait analysis adds force plates, motion capture, and EMG data.
Clinical Significance
Gait is the most common functional movement humans perform -- approximately 5,000-10,000 steps per day. Compensatory patterns during gait create cumulative asymmetric loading that contributes to overuse injuries. A client who toe-out walks on one side is externally rotating their hip with every step, loading the medial knee thousands of times daily. Gait analysis reveals compensations that standing assessment may miss because they only appear under the dynamic demands of locomotion.
How AKMI Assesses This
AKMI includes observational gait analysis as part of the assessment protocol, evaluating foot progression angle, pelvic drop, trunk lean, stride asymmetry, and arm swing. Gait findings are correlated with static assessment data to confirm structural patterns. Video recording allows slow-motion review of transient compensations.
Get your assessment test assessed
A biomechanical assessment measures gait analysis and its relationship to the rest of your structural chain. 18 tests, objective data, personalized programming.