Gait Consultation
What it Entails
Gait Consultation is a process that analyzes the structure, strength, and shoes. Optimizing each of these areas increases efficiency and reduces the likelihood of injuries. If an injury has already occurred, fixing the root cause is the quickest way to return to training.
Pre-Fitting Assessment
Start by understanding any pain or discomfort the athlete is experiencing
This gives more insight into what weaknesses or functions need to be improved.
Learn about any past surgeries, ongoing injuries, or other issues
Specific things to be aware of when watching the athlete's gait
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Insole Fitting
Every appointment involves testing and analyzing the strength and structure of an athlete to determine what they require.
Test the forefoot and arch strength
If the forefoot or arch is weak, we will further test how weak it is and then provide the exact amount of support that is needed. This will allow the body to stay healthy while it strengthens and it will soon require less support or none altogether.
Check the ankle structure
A small number of people are born with an ankle alignment that dictates they need a stability shoe. A large number of people think they need a stability shoe when they don't, which causes excessive wear on the knee and hip joints.
Check for a leg length difference
This is when the bones in one leg are longer than the bones in the other leg. This is fairly uncommon but it can have devastating results if not treated.
If caught at a young age the body is able to even itself out with a little help.
For adults a lift can be used to even the effective length of the legs. ​​​
Shoe Fitting
​​​Finally, we're ready to look at shoes
Check for weak lower legs or knee
There are four categories of shoes. One type will reduce the work load placed on the knees and lower legs by increasing the load placed on the quads. Some athletes will need this type of shoe for a time.
Check for a muscle imbalance
Athletes wear all sorts of shoes, spikes, and cleats so it is no surprise that many come in with muscle imbalances. If the athlete has a muscle imbalance there are two types of shoes that treat the two types of imbalances. The shoe will strengthen the weaker muscles and help balance the athlete.
Balanced muscles
If the athlete passed the first two tests they are healthy and will be placed in the fourth type of shoe that will keep them healthy and balanced.
Determine how much shoe the athlete needs to run optimally
Once the correct category of shoe is found, the next step is selecting the right flexibility. Flexibility is based off the athletes strength; the stronger the athlete the more flexible shoe they will need. This is because stronger muscles want to work more, while weaker muscles would be overwhelmed in a flexible shoe.
If a strong athlete is placed in a firm shoe they will not use their big toe which has been studied to produce 66% of the push-off power.
Adjust biceps if necessary to counter rotate hips (smoother, faster, and more direct running)
The biceps can slip out of place in the shoulder groove which prevents the shoulder from swinging rearward. This in turn makes it harder for the hips to work because the shoulders lead the movement. (Why coaches always say to use your arms)
Check for correct length and width of shoe
Size up or down if necessary.
Change width if necessary.
Recommend other gender of shoe if necessary for a better fit.
Small Running form pointers
Any tips that will help the athlete or make running more enjoyable.
Present the chosen running shoe to the athlete based on how they run, and how it aligns their entire body.
The shoe that engages every muscle and makes running feel easier because it is more efficient.
Almost always the most comfortable of all the shoes tested.
Often the quietest shoe.
Extra Touches
Inspect any current running shoes & spikes
If they are not the right category and a similar flexibility they will hurt the athlete.
Check for milage left in older and retired shoes.
Recommend healthy spikes, sandals, and casual shoes if desired