Video gait analysis is a method used to assess how a person walks or runs. It employs video technology to study body mechanics and movement patterns too rapid for the naked eye to perceive. This evaluation helps identify characteristics of one’s gait that can be connected to efficiency or potential injury, providing an objective review of a person’s form.
The Gait Analysis Process
A video gait analysis session takes place in a controlled environment, such as a clinic or a specialized running store. The central pieces of equipment are a treadmill and one or more high-speed cameras. These cameras are strategically placed to capture footage from different angles, most commonly from the rear and the side, to get a comprehensive view of the body in motion.
The process begins with the individual walking or running on the treadmill at a comfortable, steady pace. This is often done first barefoot and then again in their regular shoes to compare the body’s natural movement with its movement in footwear. The cameras record several minutes of this activity, capturing thousands of individual frames.
The analysis relies on slow-motion playback of the recorded video. This allows the professional to examine each phase of the gait cycle frame by frame. This detailed view helps identify subtle biomechanical details that would otherwise be missed.
Key Biomechanical Metrics
The detailed video footage allows for the assessment of several biomechanical metrics.
- Foot strike, which describes how the foot makes initial contact with the ground. A heel strike is when the heel lands first, a midfoot strike involves the middle of the foot landing, and a forefoot strike is when the ball of the foot makes the first contact.
- Pronation, the natural inward roll of the foot as it absorbs impact and transitions to push-off. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively, while supination is an insufficient inward roll that places more stress on the outer edge of the foot.
- Cadence, measured in steps per minute, which is related to running efficiency and impact force. A low cadence is often associated with overstriding, where the foot lands too far in front of the body’s center of mass, increasing braking forces and joint stress.
- Pelvic drop, or hip drop, which is observed from the rear view. This refers to the tilting of the pelvis on the non-weight-bearing side during the stance phase of running and can indicate weakness in the hip and core stabilizing muscles.
Applying the Findings
The data gathered from a video gait analysis provides actionable insights for injury prevention, rehabilitation, or performance improvement. A professional, such as a physical therapist, interprets these biomechanical markers to understand the root cause of existing pain or to identify movement patterns that could lead to future problems.
For example, if the analysis reveals significant overpronation, a recommendation might be made for stability running shoes designed to provide more support. If a notable pelvic drop is identified, the professional may prescribe specific strengthening exercises. Exercises like clamshells, hip bridges, and single-leg squats are often used to target the gluteal muscles responsible for pelvic stability.
An observation of a low cadence and overstriding could lead to coaching cues aimed at increasing step rate. Using a metronome during runs can help a runner practice taking shorter, quicker steps. This often reduces impact forces and improves running economy.
Professional and Retail Settings
Video gait analysis is available in two primary settings: clinical environments and specialty retail stores. A clinical analysis is performed by a healthcare professional like a physical therapist or a sports medicine doctor. This type of assessment is more comprehensive, often part of a diagnostic process to uncover the cause of an injury or chronic pain. It involves a holistic evaluation of strength, flexibility, and movement patterns beyond just the act of running.
In contrast, the analysis offered at a specialty running store is primarily focused on recommending the correct type of footwear. While these assessments also use video and look at metrics like pronation, their main purpose is to match a runner with a shoe that complements their foot motion. This service is less in-depth than a clinical evaluation and is not intended to diagnose or treat injuries.