Gait Analysis FAQs

Why have I been referred for gait analysis?

You have been referred because your doctor thinks that a gait analysis assessment will help inform the best treatment plan for your walking problem.

Who is involved in the assessment?

There will always be a physiotherapist and a clinical scientist conducting the assessment. Sometimes there may also be a doctor, orthotist or podiatrist present but you will be made aware of this before your appointment.

Occasionally we have students to learn about gait assessments. If you do not want them to be present, tell us on the day.

What should I wear?

As we need to see how your whole body moves, you will need to wear shorts (no longer than mid-thigh), and a t-shirt. We have spare clothing which can be loaned during your assessment if required. If you have any problems with clothing, please call us before your appointment to discuss

What should I bring with me?

It is important you bring your normal shoes with you. You will also need to bring any walking aids you use and any orthoses (e.g., splints, insoles) you use or have recently used. Where possible walking will be studied barefoot and wearing orthoses and shoes.

You may wish to bring a drink and a snack as the assessment can last a few hours.

How long does the assessment take?

How long the assessment takes depends on the purpose for your assessment and which measuring equipment we use. This can vary from forty-five minutes to two and half hours. You will only be walking for a maximum of twenty minutes, and you can have a rest whenever you need one.

What happens afterwards?

Gait analysis produces a lot of data. After you have left the gait lab, we will process the data and use this with other information about you to make recommendations.

We will then write a report for your doctor or therapist. They will then meet with you to discuss the results and together you can decide on the best treatment.

Will my gait analysis data be confidential?

You will be asked to sign a consent form allowing the data and video to be recorded and stored on our secure servers – this will be explained when you arrive.

All data and video we take will only be seen by staff in the gait lab unless you consent to other people seeing it.