Where do I get a Running Assessment?
I think there is nothing better than getting out running on a Spring morning.
I am passionate about all aspects of running and as a Podiatrist, I have a keen interest in forces and running dynamics.
When I can't run because of injury or illness I become a grumpy person!!
So I love the fact that my job as a Podiatrist is centred around helping people who come in with pain which is stopping them from running and I get to help them get back to running and achieving their goals.
So you may ask where is the best place to get a running assessment done....... This blog explains what a Podiatrist can offer to the runner
Before We Start....
Before we get into all the technology and toys we use every running assessment will begin with a thorough history which includes your medical history, previous injuries, footwear, running load (sessions per week, intensity, distance, speed, footwear, running surface) just to name a few.
This history; especially your running load, often tells us why you got injured in the first place.
The next part of the assessment is used to help us determine what factors might be stopping you from getting back running again.
This includes visual running gait assessments with the help of running dynamics pods and handheld muscle strength dynamometers.
Visual Running Gait Assessment
During the running assessment will watch you run on one of our in-clinic treadmills to assess all aspects of your running gait.
Some aspects of what we will look for include:
- Hip and knee position and movement
- Foot position at contact and throughout the gait
- The amount of sound you make when running
- Foot pronation/supination during gait
- Propulsion point during toe-off
Running Dynamics Pod
We use the latest in running dynamics pod technology which gives us 6 key running dynamics data points this will help explain why you might be experiencing pain.
The running dynamics data includes:
- Cadence (steps per minute)
- Vertical Oscillation
- Stride length
- Vertical ratio
- Ground contact time
- Left/Right force balance
Advanced Muscle Strength Testing
We have handheld muscle strength testing dynamometers that measure the peak force that certain muscles can produce.
This gives us an easy and measurable way to show you if there is any weakness in certain muscle groups or if one side is weaker than the other side.
Knowing what muscles are weak will help to specifically target those muscles in a strength and conditioning program.
So Where's The Best Place To Get A Running Assessment?
I am a bit biased however I do believe that Podiatrists should be the first point of call for any foot/ankle running-related injury or running assessment.
If you are keen to have an in-clinic running assessment you can book online here and we can help you get back out on the road or trail!
Alex Taylor
Podiatrist at Complete Podiatry