Gait Analysis
A Gait Analysis is a method used to assess the way we walk or run to highlight biomechanical abnormalities. Based on this test most running companies will fit you depending on the results of this test. Learning which shoe is appropriate for your foot is very important. Here we will show you a couple of videos that will help you select the correct shoe depending on your gate analysis. When purchasing please select the appropriate title.
Overpronation
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Excessive inward roll of the foot after landing, such that the foot continues to roll when it should be pushing off. This twists the foot, shin and knee and can cause pain in all those areas. If you are an overpronator, you'll find excessive wear on the inner side of your running shoes, and they'll tilt inward if you place them on a flat surface. Knock knees or flat feet contribute to overpronation.
Wearing the correct shoe is key to preventing injuries. Wear shoes with straight or semicurved lasts. Motion-control or stability shoes with firm, multidensity midsoles and external control features that limit pronation are best. Over-the-counter orthotics or arch supports can help, too. You know you are making improvements when the wear pattern on your shoes becomes more normal. Overpronation causes extra stress and tightness to the muscles, so do a little extra stretching. HINTS TO KNOW IF YOU OVERPRONATE: If the inner side of your shoes are especially worn, you could be overpronating. Please see the video on your left which displays overpronation. |
Supination / Underpronation
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Supination (or underpronation) is the insufficient inward roll of the foot after landing. This places extra stress on the foot and can result iniliotibial band syndrome of the knee, Achilles tendinitis, plantar fasciitis.
Runners with high arches and tight Achilles tendons tend to be supinators. Shoes will wear on the entire outside edge, and the side of the shoe becomes overstretched. If you place shoes on a flat surface, they tilt outward. Remedies: Wear shoes with curved lasts to allow pronation. Lightweight trainers are often best, as they allow more foot motion. Also, check for flexibility on the medial (inner) side of the shoe. Supinators should do extra stretching for the calves, hamstrings, quads and iliotibial band |