Gait retraining is a structured, evidence-based intervention that uses movement analysis and real-time feedback to modify the way a person walks or runs. Rather than simply treating the site of pain, it identifies and corrects the underlying movement patterns — overstriding, excessive pronation, hip drop, cross-over gait — that are generating damaging forces with every footstrike.
At The Functional Podiatrist, gait retraining is delivered as part of a comprehensive biomechanical assessment. We use On Form joint tracking, video gait analysis and functional movement testing to build an objective picture of your movement, then work with you over a series of sessions to change the patterns that are causing problems — whether you're a recreational runner, a competitive athlete, or someone dealing with chronic walking-related pain.
Gait retraining is most valuable where movement pattern faults — rather than tissue damage alone — are the primary driver of symptoms, or where injury keeps recurring despite adequate rehabilitation.
Runners with recurrent or bilateral shin splints / MTSS
Patellofemoral pain (runner's knee) driven by hip drop or cross-over gait
Plantar fasciitis that recurs with return to running
Achilles tendinopathy with overstriding or excessive heel striking
ITB syndrome linked to hip mechanics and cadence
Stress fractures returning to sport with a load reduction goal
Walking pain from abnormal gait patterns post-injury or surgery
Performance optimisation for athletes wanting to run more efficiently
Gait assessment at The Functional Podiatrist goes beyond watching someone walk on a treadmill. We use On Form joint tracking, video analysis and functional movement testing to identify the specific variables driving load and pain.
Step Rate & Cadence
Low step rate (under 170 spm) is consistently linked to overstriding, increased vertical load and higher tibial stress. We measure and target cadence as a primary retraining variable.
Foot Strike Pattern
Whether you heel strike, midfoot or forefoot strike — and where relative to your centre of mass — determines the forces transmitted to the ankle, knee and hip with every step.
Pronation & Foot Mechanics
On Form joint tracking and video analysis quantify dynamic foot and ankle mechanics across the gait cycle — identifying excessive pronation, supination and forefoot loading patterns in real time.
Hip & Pelvic Control
Contralateral hip drop (Trendelenburg) during single-leg stance is a major driver of knee, ITB and shin pain. We assess hip abductor strength and pelvic stability under load.
Cross-Over Gait
Feet crossing the midline during running increases lateral forces through the hip and knee and is a common, often overlooked driver of ITB and patellofemoral pain.
Vertical Oscillation
Excessive bounce wastes energy and increases impact forces. Reducing vertical oscillation improves running economy and reduces cumulative load on the lower limb.
Effective gait retraining is graduated and cue-based. Changing movement patterns requires deliberate practice under feedback before the new pattern becomes automatic — research shows this typically takes 4–8 weeks of consistent training. We do not ask you to change everything at once.
01
Baseline analysis. On Form joint tracking and video gait analysis to identify your primary fault patterns — combined with functional movement testing to assess strength, control and compensation strategies.
02
Priority target. We select one or two high-impact variables to address first — usually cadence or foot strike — rather than overwhelming you with multiple cues simultaneously.
03
Treadmill cues & feedback. Real-time coaching on the treadmill using verbal cues, audio cadence prompts and video playback — so you can see and feel the difference between your old and new pattern in the same session.
04
Drills & cues to take outside. You leave each session with specific drills and simple cues to focus on during your runs between appointments — so the retraining continues outside the clinic, not just on the treadmill.
05
Strength integration. Targeted hip, glute and calf strengthening runs alongside retraining to support the new pattern and prevent compensation elsewhere in the chain.
06
Reassessment. Repeat On Form joint tracking and video analysis at 4–6 weeks to objectively confirm pattern change and guide progression or further retraining targets.
Session 1
Assessment
Full gait and biomechanical analysis. Identification of primary fault patterns and agreement on retraining targets.
Weeks 1 – 4
Active retraining
Weekly or fortnightly clinic sessions with cued treadmill practice, plus structured runs between appointments to build the new pattern.
Weeks 4 – 8
Consolidation
Repeat analysis to confirm pattern change. Progressive return to full training volume as the retrained pattern becomes automatic.
Will changing my gait feel unnatural?
Initially, yes — any new motor pattern feels awkward before it becomes automatic. Most patients find the discomfort of adjustment fades within 2–3 weeks of consistent practice. We start with small, targeted changes rather than a complete overhaul, which makes the transition significantly more manageable.
Can I keep running during gait retraining?
In most cases, yes — modified running continues throughout the retraining process. We manage volume and intensity carefully to allow pattern change without aggravating the underlying injury. Complete rest is rarely required and often counterproductive to the retraining goal.
How is this different from just getting orthotics?
Orthotics modify the mechanical environment of the foot passively — they change how the foot interfaces with the ground but do not change how the body moves above it. Gait retraining addresses the active movement pattern at hip, knee and ankle level. The two approaches are complementary and are often prescribed together for best results.
Do I need to be a runner to benefit?
No. Walking gait retraining is equally relevant for people with chronic foot and ankle pain, post-surgical movement changes, or age-related gait alterations. The principles — analysing the pattern, identifying the fault, providing cued practice — apply equally to walking and running.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients complete 3–5 clinic sessions over 6–8 weeks, with structured independent practice between appointments. The number depends on the complexity of the pattern change required and how quickly the new pattern is internalised. Your podiatrist will review progress at each session and adjust accordingly.
Is gait retraining covered by insurance?
We are recognised by BUPA, Vitality, AXA PPP, Cigna, AVIVA, WPA and Simply Health. Gait retraining is typically billed as a biomechanical assessment or follow-up consultation — coverage varies by policy. We recommend confirming with your insurer before booking and our team can provide procedure codes if needed.
Ready to change how you move?
Book a biomechanical assessment and we'll identify the gait patterns driving your injury — and build a plan to correct them.
