Gait Analysis

Optimise your stride, manage load, and recover from running injuries.

gait analysis on a treadmill at Physiotherapy Room Holmfirth.

“Gait” is simply the way we walk and run. However, understanding that movement is the key to preventing injury and improving performance. At Physiotherapy Room Holmfirth, our physiotherapists have undergone specialist training to provide advanced video gait analysis for runners of all levels—from beginners to marathon competitors.

Whether you have an underlying muscle imbalance contributing to back, hip, or ankle pain, or you simply want to run more efficiently, a professional evaluation is the first step.

Why a Physio-Led Running Analysis?

There is no “one correct way” to run. Every runner develops a gait that feels natural to them. However, changing your gait without professional supervision can be a gamble; shifting load away from one area (like a sore knee) inevitably increases load somewhere else (like the Achilles).

Our goal isn’t to force you into a “perfect” posture, but to redistribute load away from injured tissues toward healthier structures, allowing your body to heal.

Conditions That Benefit from Gait Retraining

While the link between style and injury is widely debated, evidence suggests that modifying gait is highly effective for:

  • Runner’s Knee (ITB Syndrome)

  • Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)

  • Lateral Hip Pain (Trochanteric Bursitis or Gluteal Tendinopathy)

  • Forefoot Pain & Plantar Fasciitis

Our Gait Analysis Process

We combine clinical physical assessment with treadmill-based video technology at our Holmfirth clinic.

  1. Physical Assessment: We start by testing your joint mobility and muscle strength to identify any “off-bike” deficits.

  2. Video Analysis: We film and observe you running on a treadmill to identify common issues such as:

    • Over-striding and high vertical oscillation (bouncing).

    • Low Cadence (step rate).

    • Scissor-type gait or rotation deficits.

  3. Bespoke Treatment Plan: We formulate a plan including gait re-training drills, specific strengthening exercises, and physical manipulation if required.

  4. Follow-Up: We typically review your progress in 4–8 weeks to reassess your changes and fine-tune your plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?

Running trainers, shorts and tight fitting top ideally

How long will it take?

60 minutes typically.

What will i get from the experience?

An analysis of your gait and an action plan to address key issues that we’ve found.