3D Gait Analysis is a sophisticated process used to evaluate the way a person walks or runs, with the help of three-dimensional motion capture technology. By tracking the movement of the joints in the lower limbs, this analysis creates a detailed 3D model of a person’s gait (walking pattern). The data gathered helps to assess a individuals lower limb biomechanics, which enables our Podiatrist to gain valuable data to help provide a tailored management plan.
An Advanced MSK + 3D Gait Analysis can be scheduled following an initial consultation. If you are a new patient, please schedule a face to face or virtual initial consultation online.
The Advanced MSK + 3D Gait Analysis appointment usually takes between 90-120 minutes to review you. Please ensure that you bring short shorts, a T-shirt and any shoes or trainers that you need the specialist to review. Your clinician will attach reflective markers to your legs and shoes, positioned on specific anatomical landmarks. Our infrared cameras do not see you; they only see the reflective markers and once the system is calibrated, you will be asked to walk and / or run on the treadmill. During your appointment our team also carry out an MSK Analysis. During the Advanced MSK + 3D gait analysis consultation, our team capture a lot of data about your gait and biomechanics. Reports are created and added to your medical record to be reviewed in your results appointment.
3D is the ultimate in biomechanical gait analysis. We use advanced technology to precisely measure joint angles at your hips, knees, and ankles in 3D, in real-time. This provides a detailed assessment of your movement patterns when you are walking and running, from which we can recommend evidence-based treatment. 3D is only available at the Earlsfield clinical location, London, SW18 4HR.
The results of your 3D gait analysis, pressure analysis and lower limb strength and flexibility test is generally discussed during your 2 hour appointment. We will use the data to discuss and create an individual treatment plan. In some instances, we may ask you to return for another appointment if the data needs further analysis.
A 3D gait analysis is:
“like having an MRI of your walking or running pattern”
Conventional video-based assessments only record motion in 2D and do not measure the rotational movements of the body. 3D gait analysis has significant benefits over visual or video gait analysis to further objectively analyse movement patterns related to lower limb musculoskeletal pain or dysfunction. 3D examinations use infrared cameras to quantify and measure the positions of reflective markers that are attached to your pelvis and lower limbs. The marker positions are used to create an accurate 3D model of your lower limbs, to calculate precise movement within your pelvis, hips, knees, and ankle joints during walking or running. This is the same technology that is used by specialist orthopaedic hospitals and research institutions. 3D gait analysis enables your clinician to accurately and objectively identify any abnormal patterns or asymmetries in your walking and running gait. An MSK Analysis including plantar foot pressure testing (see below) is also undertaken within this appointment to review your lower limb flexibility, strength, neuromuscular control, and alignment.
This data helps your clinician to further understand your biomechanical profile. The information gathered during your Advanced MSK + 3D Gait Analysis assessment enables your clinician to provide data-driven rehabilitation advice and optimise your treatment pathway.
Plantar foot pressure analysis is used within this 2 hour appointment to review activity related force and load impacting the foot and ankle. This technology is utilised to analyse specific areas of peak plantar foot pressure. The report allows the specialist to map and track where your body weight (centre of mass) is situated at specific intervals during each step. Once the Podiatrist has mapped your barefoot walking pattern, we will discuss if orthoses (medical devices), footwear adaptions, splints or a lower limb rehabilitation plan could help your individual need and optimise your foot function. Optimising walking or running patterns (biomechanics) can help to reduce foot, ankle and lower limb pain or prevent sports related overuse injury such as plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinopathy and illiotibial-band syndrome (runners knee).
3D gait analysis is suitable for anyone who is experiencing musculoskeletal pain during walking or running, and sports-related injuries. It is also suitable for runners without pain looking to improve running efficiency and to help prevent injury.
Below are some of the common conditions we manage in clinic:
Once we’ve reviewed your 3D walking / running data, barefoot pressure analysis data and lower limb strength and flexibility reports, we will discuss an evidence informed individual treatment plan.
Treatment options may include: orthoses (medical devices), footwear advice, education, pain management, load management, activity modification, lower limb rehabilitation, steroid injection therapy, OSTENIL injection therapy, shockwave therapy, ankle bracing or Richie bracing. If you are a runner or have high activity levels, we also offer 3D gait re-training to improve your running pattern, efficiency and help to reduce sports related injury. Your specialist may also need to request imaging such as an X-ray, MRI or blood tests. We also work with numerous consultants locally if surgery or an onward referral is recommended.
A 3D Gait Analysis appointment is only available at Earlsfield, London Clinic.
