Abnormal Gait & Custom Orthotic Therapy

Understanding Abnormal Gait

Gait refers to the way a person walks. An abnormal gait occurs when the feet, ankles, legs, or other structures do not function properly during walking or running. These abnormalities can lead to pain, fatigue, instability, decreased athletic performance, and an increased risk of injury.

At Edge Podiatry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gait abnormalities in both children and adults. Through comprehensive biomechanical evaluations, advanced gait analysis, and custom orthotic therapy, we help patients improve function, reduce pain, and move more efficiently.

Common Signs of an Abnormal Gait

You may benefit from a gait evaluation if you experience:

• Frequent tripping or falling

• Uneven shoe wear

• Foot, ankle, knee, hip, or back pain

• Fatigue with walking or standing

• Flat feet or high arches

• In-toeing ("pigeon toes")

• Out-toeing

• Toe walking

• Poor balance or instability

• Recurrent sports injuries

• Difficulty keeping up with peers during physical activities

Pediatric Gait Disorders

Many children develop temporary gait variations as they grow. However, some walking patterns may persist and require evaluation and treatment.

Common pediatric gait concerns include:

• In-toe Gait (Pigeon Toes)

• Out-toe Gait

• Flat Feet

• Toe Walking

• Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)

• Bow Legs (Genu Varum)

• Sever's Disease

• Growing Pains

• Limb Length Differences

• Coordination and Balance Difficulties

Early intervention can often help prevent future pain, fatigue, and biomechanical complications. Our physicians carefully evaluate your child's growth, development, walking pattern, and foot structure to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Adult Gait Disorders

Abnormal walking patterns in adults can develop from structural deformities, injuries, arthritis, muscle imbalances, neurological conditions, or years of poor biomechanics.

Common adult conditions associated with abnormal gait include:

• Flat Feet (Pes Planus)

• High-Arched Feet (Pes Cavus)

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Achilles Tendon Disorders

• Arthritis

• Bunions and Hammertoes

• Tendonitis

• Neuromas

• Limb Length Discrepancies

• Sports-Related Injuries

• Balance and Stability Disorders

Left untreated, abnormal gait patterns can place excessive stress on the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back, often leading to chronic pain and progressive joint degeneration.

The Role of Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices designed specifically for your feet. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are tailored to your unique biomechanics and gait pattern.

Orthotics work by:

• Improving foot alignment

• Reducing excessive pronation or supination

• Redistributing pressure across the foot

• Enhancing balance and stability

• Improving walking and running efficiency

• Reducing stress on joints, tendons, and ligaments

• Helping prevent recurrent injuries

• Providing support and comfort during daily activities

For many patients, custom orthotics serve as the foundation of long-term treatment and prevention.

Advanced Gait Analysis

At Edge Podiatry, we utilize advanced gait analysis technology, including Tekscan® pressure mapping systems, to evaluate how your feet function during walking and standing.

This technology allows us to:

• Identify biomechanical abnormalities

• Measure pressure distribution

• Analyze balance and weight transfer

• Evaluate force patterns during gait

• Monitor treatment progress

• Design highly customized orthotic devices

By combining clinical expertise with advanced technology, we can create more precise and effective treatment plans.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Treatment for abnormal gait may include:

• Custom Orthotics

• Physical Therapy

• Stretching and Strengthening Programs

• Footwear Recommendations

• Bracing

• Activity Modifications

• Sports Performance Evaluation

• Pediatric Gait Monitoring

• Surgical Correction (when necessary)

Our goal is to address the underlying cause of the abnormal gait, not just the symptoms.

Helping You Move Better

Whether your child is experiencing developmental gait concerns or you are an adult suffering from chronic pain, instability, or recurring injuries, our team is committed to helping you achieve healthier movement patterns and improved quality of life.

Contact Edge Podiatry today to schedule a comprehensive gait evaluation and learn how custom orthotics can help you move more comfortably and confidently.