What should you know about RLA gait analysis?

The assessment may look at stride length, foot placement, joint alignment, balance, and how the hips, knees, and ankles share load. You may be observed walking, jogging, or completing simple movement tasks. Depending on the clinic, video, sensors, or a pressure plate may add detail to the clinician’s visual assessment.

A result is not a diagnosis on its own. It is one part of an examination that also considers pain, strength, flexibility, footwear, previous injuries, and your goals. The findings can help distinguish a movement habit from a problem that needs medical evaluation.

Wear comfortable clothing and bring the shoes you normally use for the activity that causes concern. Tell the clinician when symptoms begin, whether they occur on one or both sides, and what changes them. If technology is used, [3D Motion Capture](/technology/3d-motion-capture/) can record body movement, while a [Pressure Plate Gait Scanner](/technology/pressure-plate-gait-scanner/) can show how pressure moves under the feet.

Your plan might include exercise, technique changes, footwear advice, or [Custom Orthotics](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/custom-orthotics/). Changes should be introduced gradually and reviewed against your symptoms and function.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for sudden inability to walk, a new major loss of balance, severe pain after an injury, marked swelling, or new weakness or numbness. Seek urgent help for weakness with loss of bladder or bowel control, or for a leg that becomes cold or changes colour. A gait assessment should not delay evaluation of these warning signs.

Ask what movement finding is most relevant to your symptoms, whether the assessment changes your diagnosis or only guides rehabilitation, which exercises should come first, and when your walking pattern should be reassessed. Ask how pain or new weakness would change the plan.