Advanced Gait Analysis & Biomechanical Assessment in Axminster
Gait analysis is a detailed assessment of your movement pattern – including foot loading, stride mechanics, posture and joint control. It helps identify the specific factors driving pain, overload or inefficiency, whether you’re recovering from injury or trying to improve performance.
At our Axminster clinic, gait assessments are carried out using:
- Footscan® pressure mapping, to measure exactly how your foot loads through each step
- Video analysis, to assess movement quality, alignment and running or walking technique
Our gait analysis service is led by Guy Sweetman FSST, our Founder and Clinical Director, who is a Certified Running Technique Specialist (CRTS) through The Running School and introduced Footscan® pressure-plate technology to the clinic. Guy has worked with recreational runners, Hyrox athletes and elite-level competitors, and personally leads or trains the team who deliver this assessment.
What Happens in a Gait Analysis Appointment?
Your session is structured, thorough and tailored to your goals. Typically, we will:
- Take a short history (pain, injuries, training, footwear, goals)
- Assess key mobility, strength and control factors linked to your symptoms
- Capture walking and/or running footage, depending on what you need
- Record Footscan® pressure plate data
- Explain what we're seeing in plain English
- Agree a clear plan - rehab, technique changes, loading advice and next steps
You’ll leave knowing what’s contributing to your issue and exactly what to do about it.
Who Is Gait Analysis For?
Gait analysis is particularly helpful if you have:
- Running injuries (shin splints, ITB pain, recurrent calf issues)
- Foot and ankle pain (plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy)
- Knee pain (tracking issues, overload, return-to-run problems)
- Hip or lower back pain linked to walking or running
- Recurring injuries that keep coming back despite rest
- A goal to improve running efficiency and reduce wasted effort
- A need for post-surgical rehabilitation support
If you’re not sure whether gait analysis is the right starting point, book in – we’ll guide you to the most appropriate assessment.
Every Gait Analysis Includes
- Detailed biomechanical assessment
- Footscan® pressure mapping analysis
- Stiffness and joint mobility screening
- Video motion analysis
- A clear, plain-English explanation of findings
- Personalised treatment recommendations
- An exercise programme, when appropriate
Where clinically appropriate, we can also discuss custom orthotics/insoles (including our Phits 3D-printed insoles – we were the first UK distributor) and a structured rehab plan.
Why Choose East Devon Physical Therapy for Gait Analysis?
- A Fellow of the Society of Sports Therapists (Guy Sweetman FSST) overseeing our gait and biomechanics service
- Gold-standard Footscan® technology plus video analysis software
- A practical, evidence-informed approach - no vague "one-size-fits-all" advice
- Rehab plans you can actually follow, with clear progression and goals
- Option to integrate with our AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill for a low-impact return to running when needed
“Very professional and knowledgeable. Guy was very quick to diagnose my injury and all the gait analysis tests were very informative and all were explained to me so I knew exactly what my feet were doing when I walk.insoles we’re recommended but not pushed on me due to the fact they are expensive. I’ve started on the rehab exercises given and hope to see improvement soon” – Nicola Shaw, Axminster
What Our Patient Say
“Very professional and knowledgeable. Guy was very quick to diagnose my injury and all the gait analysis tests were very informative and all were explained to me so I knew exactly what my feet were doing when I walk.insoles we’re recommended but not pushed on me due to the fact they are expensive. I’ve started on the rehab exercises given and hope to see improvement soon”
– Nicola Shaw, Axminster
Local Gait Analysis for East Devon (and Beyond)
Our gait analysis appointments take place at our Axminster clinic (Woodmead Road, Axminster, Devon EX13 5PQ), and we regularly help patients travelling from Seaton, Lyme Regis, Honiton, Sidmouth, Chard, Exeter and Bridport.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a gait analysis take?
It depends on what we’re assessing (walking, running, or both) and whether you’re dealing with pain or performance goals. When you book, we’ll make sure you’re in the right appointment type.
Do I need to bring anything?
Bring your usual running shoes/trainers and any orthotics/insoles you currently use. If you have a recent training plan or race goal, that helps too.
Can you analyse walking as well as running?
Yes – we can assess walking, running, or both, depending on your symptoms and goals.
Will I get a report?
We’ll explain your results clearly in the session and outline your plan. If you need a written summary for your own tracking, tell us when you book.
Do you prescribe insoles/orthotics?
If they’re appropriate, we’ll discuss options. Insoles aren’t a default – we only recommend them when they genuinely fit the clinical picture.
Can you combine gait analysis with AlterG rehab?
Yes. For some injuries, or return-to-run plans, AlterG can be a great way to rebuild capacity with reduced impact.