Which specialist performs gait analysis?

Gait analysis is a structured review of how you walk, jog, or run. A physiotherapist may watch your posture, balance, joint movement, muscle control, and the way symptoms change during activity. A podiatrist may concentrate on the feet, ankles, footwear, pressure patterns, and how foot position affects the rest of the leg. The assessment can include walking at different speeds, simple movement tests, and video review. It does not automatically mean that you need a special device or treatment.

Choose a physiotherapist when pain, weakness, recovery after injury, or exercise technique is your main concern. Consider a podiatrist when recurring foot pain, unusual shoe wear, arch concerns, or ankle alignment is central. Bring the shoes you normally use and describe when symptoms appear, such as after standing, walking uphill, or running. The clinician can explain whether another assessment, imaging, footwear change, or rehabilitation plan would add value.

Arrange an assessment for persistent pain, repeated falls, a new limp, or difficulty covering your usual distance. Seek urgent medical care after a sudden injury if you cannot bear weight, or if a limb becomes visibly deformed, numb, unusually cold, or rapidly swollen. New weakness that affects walking also needs prompt evaluation rather than a routine gait appointment.

Ask which part of your walking pattern needs assessment, whether you should bring particular footwear, and what the findings could change in your care. You can also ask whether the review will include running, stairs, or work-related movement, and how progress will be checked.