How Gait Analysis Works

Gait analysis is a highly effective diagnostic tool designed to evaluate the way you walk and run. By examining your unique movement patterns, our team at Waverley Clinic in the heart of Farnham can identify underlying biomechanical issues that may be responsible for pain, decreased efficiency, or ongoing discomfort. These subtle irregularities often present clues, including:

• Persistent hard skin in a specific area
• Thick callus under the big toe
• Cracks around the heel
• A bunion becoming more pronounced
• Shoes wearing unevenly

Our advanced gait scan technology enables us to precisely measure how your foot functions during each step, moving far beyond visual observation. The resulting objective data allows us to diagnose the root cause of foot and lower limb discomfort with accuracy and confidence.

This guide outlines what you can expect from a professional gait analysis and the many benefits it offers. Discover how our expert-led services can help you restore optimal mobility and enhance your quality of life with a supportive, evidence-based approach.

What Is Gait Analysis?

Gait analysis is a comprehensive assessment of both walking and running patterns, with the primary aim of identifying biomechanical abnormalities that contribute to pain, inefficiency, or increased risk of injury.

This detailed evaluation is suitable for anyone—from athletes striving for peak performance to individuals suffering from chronic foot, ankle, knee, or back pain. By understanding your gait mechanics, our experienced podiatrists, Jonathan and Marzieh, develop a tailored treatment plan to restore normal function and help you move with greater ease.

Every step includes a series of coordinated movements. Disruption in any part of this sequence can cause excessive pressure in other regions, potentially leading to:

• Heel pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
• Arch pain
• Shin splints
• Knee pain
• Hip tightness
• Forefoot discomfort
• Recurrent injuries

Although your body is remarkably adaptive and will compensate for inefficiency, these adjustments often lead to ongoing pain and dysfunction over time. Our expert analysis identifies these patterns early, supporting timely intervention and sustainable recovery.

What Hard Skin and Callus Indicate

Formation of hard skin and calluses is not arbitrary—these are your body’s response to chronic pressure or friction. Their location can reveal valuable information about your movement patterns:

• Under the big toe: May reflect an uneven push-off in the gait cycle.
• On the ball of the foot: Suggests forefoot overload.
• On the inside edge of the heel: Indicates potential overpronation.

Interpreting these signs requires clinical expertise. Our assessment translates your skin’s “map” into actionable information, allowing us to target the root causes rather than just treating the symptoms.

Understanding Bunions and Biomechanics

A bunion is more than a cosmetic concern; it fundamentally alters how your big toe functions and affects your overall gait. The big toe should provide stability and push-off strength. When a bunion develops, it can cause the toe to drift, resulting in:

• Reduced efficiency in push-off
• Redistribution of pressure to the smaller toes
• Decreased overall foot stability
• Compensatory changes in the knee and hip

These changes often lead to secondary pain in areas such as the forefoot, knee, and hip. Addressing a bunion involves not only relieving discomfort but also correcting the associated biomechanical imbalances.

The Gait Analysis Process at Waverley Clinic

At Waverley Clinic, we take a meticulous approach to gait analysis using advanced OHI pressure plate technology. This scan collects precise data about your foot’s movement and pressure load at every phase of the gait cycle.

What Gets Analysed:
Our comprehensive protocol records critical metrics such as pronation, footstrike pattern, cadence, stride length, and plantar pressure distribution. We also assess your overall posture, arm swing, and pelvic motion. This level of detail ensures a complete, individualised understanding of your movement.

Is Gait Analysis Right For You?

Gait analysis is especially beneficial if you experience:

• Heel or arch pain
• History of plantar fasciitis
• Recurring running injuries
• Hard skin or callus buildup
• Worsening bunions
• Knee discomfort post-exercise
• Uneven shoe wear

If any of these apply, a professional assessment is a crucial step towards lasting comfort and improved function.

Interpreting Your Results

Throughout your assessment, your podiatrist interprets key indicators of foot function:

• Neutral pronation: The foot rolls inward just enough to absorb impact. Wear patterns appear mainly on the ball and outer heel.
• Overpronation: The foot rolls inward excessively, commonly associated with flat feet. Shoe wear is most pronounced on the inside edge.
• Underpronation (supination): The foot fails to roll inward sufficiently, placing more pressure laterally. Shoes wear more on the outer edge—often seen in high arches.

Understanding how you load your feet is essential for effective, personalised treatment recommendations.

Foot Arch Assessment and Its Importance

Accurate identification of your arch type is vital for selecting supportive footwear and preventing possible injuries. At our Farnham clinic, we provide advanced 3D digital arch mapping as part of our assessment process. Foot arch types include:

• Low arches (flat feet): Entire sole is visible, typically leading to overpronation. Custom orthotics or stability shoes are often advised.
• Normal arches: A moderate curve provides natural shock absorption.
• High arches: Minimal connection between the heel and ball of the foot, predisposing you to underpronation and uneven pressure.

Our team will explain your results and recommend steps to support lasting foot health and stability.

Orthotics, Treatment Corrections, and Follow-Up

Following a thorough gait and arch analysis, we may recommend custom orthotics—bespoke medical devices manufactured uniquely for your feet. Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are engineered to correct specific biomechanical imbalances, redistribute load, and support comfortable, efficient movement.

Key benefits include:

• More even pressure distribution
• Targeted support for high-stress areas
• Improved alignment and function
• Reduced stress on the knees, hips, and lower back

Our treatment plans also feature tailored strengthening and mobility exercises, delivered with clear instructions. A follow-up appointment helps us monitor your progress and refine your care plan, ensuring ongoing benefit and long-term results.

Why Choose Custom Orthotics Over Generic Insoles?

Generic, over-the-counter insoles are designed for the “average” foot, which may not address your individual needs. Custom orthotics, like a prescription for glasses, are tailored to correct the unique way you move—maximising comfort and supporting optimal function.

What to Expect at Your Gait Analysis Appointment

When you attend a biomechanical assessment at our Farnham clinic, you can expect:

• Cutting-edge OHI pressure plate scanning for detailed foot mapping
• Measurement of pressure at each stage of your gait
• Expert analysis of load distribution, foot posture, and movement patterns

All results are discussed in clear, jargon-free language, and you will be supported by our professional podiatry team every step of the way.

Preparing for Your Appointment

A typical gait analysis session lasts approximately 45 minutes. Please wear comfortable shorts or leggings and bring your usual footwear for running or daily activity. Bring notes on any recent injuries or specific performance or health goals you may have. Arriving well-rested and hydrated helps us gain the most accurate insight into your gait.

At the conclusion of your session, you will receive a detailed explanation of our findings along with a clear, actionable treatment plan tailored to your needs.

After Your Gait Analysis: Practical Next Steps

Following your assessment, we guide you through a customised plan including:

• Recommended footwear trials for the ideal fit and function
• Fitting and trial of custom orthotics if required
• A structured exercise programme for strength and mobility
• Scheduled follow-up to review your progress and adjust your plan as needed

Our clinic is dedicated to helping you achieve improved movement and long-term mobility.

Take the First Step Towards Better Foot Health

A professional gait analysis is a pivotal step towards alleviating pain, preventing injury, and achieving lasting comfort and mobility. At Waverley Clinic in Farnham, our expert podiatrists are equipped with the knowledge and technology to diagnose and address your unique biomechanical challenges.

Do not let ongoing discomfort or uncertainty hold you back. Take the first step to better foot health by booking your comprehensive gait analysis today. To schedule your appointment, use our online booking portal or call us at 01252 716611.

We provide a 24/7 telephone booking service for your convenience.

At Waverley Clinic in Farnham, our mission is to help you understand what your feet are telling you—and provide expert solutions that restore your confidence and mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions