What is gait analysis?
Gait analysis is the study of how a person walks. We use state-of-the-art equipment, including infrared cameras, force plates, electromyography and pedobarography, in our gait laboratory to look at how the body moves, muscle activity, and forces during walking.
With the information gathered we identify the problems affecting your walking and, with our multidisciplinary team (orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, clinical scientists, and orthotists), provide advice on treatment options such as surgery, medication, orthoses, or therapy.
Who we see
We assess children, young people and adults experiencing movement problems with a variety of medical conditions.
What does gait analysis involve?
You will be asked to walk up and down the gait laboratory where lots of equipment is used to measure your walking.
We have a few ways of doing this which include:
Video
You will be asked to walk in barefoot (if you can) and with your shoes on (and orthoses if you have them) while video cameras record. You will be able to use any walking aids you require and you can have as much rest as you need.
Clinical measurements
We use simple handheld measuring devices to see how much movement you have in your legs and how your muscles work. It is likely that you have experienced this before when seeing your consultant or therapist.
Computer measurements
We place small reflective markers on your legs – they are very light and do not hurt. Sometimes we also put additional sticky pads on your muscles to record how they are working.
The cameras pick up the reflective markers on your legs, and a computer calculates the position of the markers while you are walking.
The computer joins up the markers to make a 3D model of your legs. You can see an example of this below:
If you have problems with your feet, we may also ask you to walk along a mat or put an insole shaped sensor in your shoes.
How can I be referred?
We accept referrals from NHS consultants (e.g., orthopaedic surgeons) or therapists (e.g., physiotherapists, orthotists and podiatrists).
The way we use our measuring equipment depends on what your consultant or therapist wants to learn about your walking. If you are a clinician and would like to discuss the best approach for your patient, please get in touch with us.
Contact us
Visit us
Northern Gait Analysis Service
Gait Lab, Disablement Services Centre
Freeman Hospital
High Heaton
NE7 7AF
National accreditation
The Northern Gait Analysis Service is one of only 16 gait laboratories in the UK and Ireland to be accredited by the Clinical Movement Analysis Society of UK and Ireland (CMAS) standards. Accreditation is gained after a rigorous audit process that makes sure we meet the very highest standards of gait analysis.
