Running and Walking Analysis
Do you love to run? At lunchtime, before work, after work, on the weekend, in your sleep – whenever you can. Or do you just like a light jog now and then, or walking for exercise?
Running and walking, like all repetitive activity, can lead to strain on the body if good alignment and technique is not maintained. Lower limbs and back are most vulnerable, but sometimes the neck/shoulders or back can be affected.
WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES DOES ANALYSIS HELP/PREVENT?
Whether your running style has resulted in tight muscles and a sore back, or whether tight muscles are affecting your running style and causing back pain (or just slowing you down!) the cause needs to be determined.
Typical running injuries include plantar fasciitis (foot), Achilles tendinitis (heel), patellofemoral (knee-cap) pain, calf strain, and lower back pain. These injuries may be caused by a change in training intensity or style, or they may relate to your running technique. Walkers can also suffer from any of these conditions, and in particular are prone to knee issues.
WHAT DOES RUNNING/WALKING ANALYSIS INVOLVE?
A running analysis will involve your physio taking a history and examining the problem area. Then they will look at, and film your gait on our treadmill. You then have the opportunity to view the recording frame by frame with your physio. By a systematic approach from the ground up, the components of your gait which may be contributing to your problems can be determined. Advice may then be given, for walkers up to elite runners, about strategies and exercises you may use to improve technique.
DO I ALSO NEED PHYSIOTHERAPY?
Gait analysis may reveal weakness or tightness in the core/back/leg muscles, or it may just reveal imperfections in your running style. If certain exercises or treatment need to be given, you may require physiotherapy treatment. If it is a matter of changing technique, you may be advised to go and practise this independently. In either case, it is helpful to review your running style at a later date, compare it to the original video, and see what progress you have made.
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
When you call the practice, let the reception staff know you are interested in a running/walking assessment. If you are new to Macquarie Street Physiotherapy we allow 60 mins for the consultation so your physio can take your history and ask relevant medical questions. If you are a current patient, we have your history, and so should only need 45 mins for your assessment. When you come in for your assessment, bring the footwear you run/walk in, and exercise clothing which is reasonably firm fitting.
WHAT ABOUT OTHER SPORT?
If your pain relates to a different sport or your exercise at the gym, we can help sort out elements that might be letting you down. We can spend an appointment in our gym and have a look at technique, stability, flexibility and strength. Just ask your physio or reception at Macquarie Street Physiotherapy located in the Sydney City CBD. We look forward to helping you “stay on track”!
