Gait Analysis for runners worth it

AN article in the Wall Street Journal caught my eye the other day (link to article and video is on my blog and Facebook).
Now we’ve all been told that the shock and impact from running causes joint pain, injuries and osteoarthritis, especially in ankles, knee and hips.
But what if it doesn’t?
Recent studies have shown that runner’s bones are actually stronger and we all know that weight bearing exercise (like running!) is a key factor in preventing osteoporosis (loss of bone density). In fact new research from Australia has recommended that doctors should prescribe exercise not paracetamol to help with pain from arthritis. Runners are less likely to require joint replacement surgery or suffer from arthritis.
And yet many runner are injured or have pain, some even being forced to stop running because of the pain and injuries.
A mechanical solution
It’s not running that’s the problem – it’s the mechanics of our bodies that are the problem.
And that’s what Gait Analysis is – a scientific way of looking at the mechanics of movement, how our feet, ankles, knees, hips and back move and, importantly, looking for any issues that might cause current pain or injuries in the future.
Why video and not the naked eye?
I use a combination of video technology and a pressure mat to assess how your feet, ankles, knees, hips and lower back are moving. Why? Because this allows me to sloooooow down how you move. It means I can measure a specific range of motion that happens in less than a second and I know exactly where the pressure is and how much it is.
I’ve been doing this for a long time and I can tell a LOT by watching you move. But if I want to create a clinical solution, I need clinical, scientific and precise measurements.
But will I train better?
The short answer is yes. With a proper assessment we can target and strengthen your weak areas. Less weakness means less injury and less pain. Which means you will be able to train harder more comfortably.

We should also make your stride more efficient and effective.