What’s Up With Your Gait? Step Right Up And Find Out!

Walking is something we do so often that most of us don’t give it a second thought. In fact, we take an average of 3,000 to 4,000 steps a day. But walking, and running, require a complex combination of muscles, joints, and nerves to get us from one place to the next. Our podiatrist at Kirkland Office is an expert at assessing this deceptively simple motion, known as our gait, and ensuring that everything’s working together safely and efficiently.

Why is your gait important?

• Proper gait mechanics reduce your risk of injury by distributing weight evenly, which minimizes the chance of suffering muscle strains, joint pain, and overuse injuries such as shin splints.

• For older adults, a well-coordinated gait helps maintain balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls.

• Aproper gait contributes to good posture and alignment, which reduces stress on the spine and joints

• An efficient gait allows you to walk or run for longer distances without becoming fatigued.

Our podiatrist will measure your gait by observing you while you walk, assessing the range of motion and muscle strength of your ankles and knees, and use advanced diagnostic tools to obtain detailed data on your movement patterns. 

After our careful evaluation, we may recommend:

• Specific exercises to strengthen weak muscles, improve flexibility, and address any imbalances; 

• Custom-made shoe inserts known as orthotics to support the foot and correct imbalances to improve gait and reduce pain.

• Referrals to other healthcare professionals for further evaluation and treatment if an underlying medical condition is contributing to gait problems.

Evaluating your gait is just one facet of the comprehensive examination our podiatrist at Kirkland Office offers at our friendly, comfortable office. We are experts in all aspects of the health of the foot and ankle, ensuring you’ve got a strong foundation to carry you safely and comfortably through life! Please contact us today to schedule an appointment.