Gait Analysis
What is gait analysis?
In an O&P setting, gait analysis is structured observation of how a person walks in their orthosis or prosthesis, often using parallel bars and, when available, a treadmill or video. The clinician looks at step length, knee and hip motion, socket stability, foot roll-over, and pain. It is clinical fitting analysis, not a full hospital motion-capture laboratory unless that service is separately equipped.
Why is gait analysis performed?
Alignment, socket fit, and component choice show up in walking. A prosthesis that looks acceptable on the bench can still cause a limp, knee buckling, or low-back pain. Gait assessment is used at delivery and at follow-up to decide whether to change heel height, knee resistance, socket trim lines, or orthotic posting. It is also used to judge whether the patient is ready for a more or less sophisticated component.
What are the benefits of gait analysis?
- Identifies treatable causes of limp, instability, or pain
- Guides alignment and component changes with the patient actually walking
- May reduce compensatory strain on the sound limb and spine
- Supports safer progression from bars to community ambulation
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