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DiscussionPeripheral sensory neuropathy - Anyone tried Walkasins?
Neuropathy | Last Active: Aug 25 2:06pm | Replies (67)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Hi, @mistymom Where can I get a gait analysis? Truthfully, I don't know. But I'm going..."
Thank you.
Hi Ray - a rehabilitation physical therapist can do a gait analysis - this is not the "cookie cutter" PT they send you to after a hip replacement - think more for complex situations like recovering from trauma. Any department affiliated with an ortho or trauma hospital will know of the right people for you.
You walk on a flat surface, a ramp and stairs and they watch to see if you are favoring one limb, turning a knee or foot, etc. Then they coach you into the best walking posture you can manage - with or without an aid. If you use a cane or walker, they train you on the best use, make sure it is correctly sized and adjusted, even suggest alternatives.
Finally, they give you exercises to practice, and sometimes exercises or stretches to correct imbalances and strengthen your core.
They also had me replace my shoes, which had worn into my unhealthy patterns & ultimately I got new orthotics as well.
I was treated for years for back pain, including specialized PT and injections, until some observant doc x-rayed my hips & I had both of them replaced. I had limped (actually waddled) for so long that I had to relearn how to walk correctly.
I do have arthritis and stenosis (as most do at my age) but if my back hurts now, I know I need to get back to my core exercises and be mindful of how I walk.
I'd recommend calling a major Rehab Hospital, best luck would be one associated with a major medical center. and asking to speak with the PT department head and ask about a "computerized" gait analysis. The equipment must be expensive.
It is also true a well-seasoned PT can do a very good observation and make recommendations. I feel lucky to have found one that actually makes shoe adjustments, not many specialty shoe stores with that kind of expertise exist anymore., it seems to be all pre-fabricated orthotics.
I think Sue @sueinmn has had a gait analysis done and might have some good insight into how you can get tested.