Gait Analysis

Biomechanical gait analysis using instrumented smart insoles with accelerometry to assess walking and running mechanics. Captures ground reaction force patterns, cadence, step length symmetry, pronation, and loading distribution across the foot. Used to identify injury risk factors, correct form inefficiencies, and personalise footwear or orthotics recommendations. Approximately 45 minutes.

NYC Performance Lab's gait analysis service uses instrumented smart insoles embedded with accelerometers and pressure sensors to capture the biomechanical characteristics of an individual's walking and running pattern with quantitative precision. Unlike treadmill camera-based motion capture — which requires a controlled lab environment and post-session manual analysis — the smart insole approach allows gait measurement in real-world movement conditions and delivers immediate data output for each step taken. The key variables captured include ground reaction force patterns (the forces transmitted through the foot and up the kinetic chain at each foot strike), cadence (steps per minute), step length, the symmetry ratio between left and right steps (a strong predictor of compensatory injury risk), pronation angle and velocity (how far and fast the foot rolls inward at contact), loading rate (how quickly force accumulates at contact — a modifiable risk factor for tibial stress injuries), and the pressure distribution map across the plantar surface of the foot. This dataset allows the clinician to identify asymmetries that may reflect prior injury, compensatory movement strategies, or structural factors such as leg length discrepancy; high loading rates associated with injury risk in distance runners; and footwear-fit or insole prescription needs. The analysis is interpreted in the context of physical examination and the client's sport or activity history by the in-house physical therapy team led by Dr. Steven Sunderraj PT, DPT, USAW. Findings can directly inform footwear recommendations, custom or off-the-shelf orthotic prescription, cuing strategies for form correction, and return-to-sport protocols for clients recovering from lower limb injuries. The session runs approximately 45 minutes.