Is the way you walk causing you discomfort?
Your gait, or how you walk and run, is as unique as your fingerprint. A smooth and efficient gait cycle helps distribute weight evenly across your feet, reducing strain on specific areas. However, abnormalities in your gait may contribute to discomfort or injuries over time.
Some common gait abnormalities include:
- Waddling gait: Often caused by weak hip muscles, leading to uneven weight distribution across the foot.
- Crouch gait: Characterised by excessive bending at the knees and hips, putting pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot.
These irregularities may lead to foot pain in areas such as:
- The bottom of the foot
- Under the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia)
- Persistent foot pain during or after running
Common Foot Pain and Gait Concerns
Pain in the Arch of the Foot
The arch acts as your foot’s natural shock absorber. Overpronation (rolling your foot inward excessively) or underpronation (not enough inward roll) can strain the arch, potentially leading to pain or conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Pain in the Ball of the Foot
If you feel discomfort under your forefoot, it might be due to excessive pressure caused by an irregular gait. This is common in runners with a crouched stance or high-arched feet.
Nighttime Foot Pain
Foot pain that lingers at night could indicate ongoing inflammation or insufficient recovery due to biomechanical stress during the day.
Why You Need a Professional Gait Analysis
Gait analysis is a specialised assessment that evaluates how your body moves when you walk or run. At Hong Kong Foot Clinic, our podiatrists use advanced tools and techniques to assess your gait cycle and identify underlying issues that may contribute to your foot pain. Learn more about our gait analysis services here.
A professional gait analysis may reveal:
- Areas of imbalance or strain
- Whether your running form contributes to pain
- Specific foot or biomechanical abnormalities requiring correction
Identifying these factors early can help prevent more serious issues and support a more comfortable running experience.
Treatment Options for Runners
The good news is that gait-related foot pain can often be managed through various treatment options. Your healthcare provider may recommend you consult a podiatrist for an assessment and specific therapy based on your unique needs.
Our podiatrists may recommend:
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics may help address biomechanical issues and provide support during activity. They are designed to redistribute pressure and reduce strain. Learn more about orthotics at Hong Kong Foot Clinic here.
Targeted Exercises
Strengthening and stretching exercises tailored to your foot structure can improve your gait and alleviate discomfort over time.
Footwear Advice
Choosing the right shoes for your foot type is essential. Our podiatrists can provide guidance on selecting running shoes that offer optimal comfort and support.
Ongoing Care
For persistent or complex cases, at Hong Kong Foot Clinic we provide individual treatment plans designed to reduce pain and support long-term foot health.
Your Next Step Toward Comfort and Confidence
If foot pain is holding you back from enjoying your runs, don’t ignore it. Your gait may be telling you something important! At Hong Kong Foot Clinic, we are here to help you uncover the root cause of your pain and develop a personalised plan to address your needs.
Contact us today to schedule your professional gait analysis and take the first step toward running more comfortably.
Disclaimer
Results of treatment may vary depending on individual circumstances. Our podiatrists follow evidence-based practices to recommend treatments that are most appropriate for your condition.
References:
Cleveland Clinic, Gait Disorders and Abnormalities, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21092-gait-disorders [ Accessed 28 November 2024].
Mohaddis M, Maqsood SA, Ago E, Singh S, Naim Z, Prasad S. Enhancing Functional Rehabilitation Through Orthotic Interventions for Foot and Ankle Conditions: A Narrative Review. Cureus. 2023 Nov 20;15(11):e49103. doi: 10.7759/cureus.49103. PMID: 38024022; PMCID: PMC10659571. [Accessed 28 November 2024].
