Gait Analysis

Term from Therapy industry explained for recruiters

Gait Analysis is the detailed study of how a person walks or runs. It's a valuable skill in physical therapy and rehabilitation where specialists observe and assess a patient's walking pattern to identify problems and plan treatments. Think of it as a detailed walking check-up that helps therapists understand why someone might be having trouble walking normally, experiencing pain, or at risk of falling. This can involve simple observation or use of special equipment to measure movement. Physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists use gait analysis to create targeted treatment plans and track a patient's progress over time.

Examples in Resumes

Performed Gait Analysis assessments for over 200 patients annually

Utilized Gait Analysis and Movement Analysis techniques to develop personalized treatment plans

Conducted detailed Gait Analysis and Walking Pattern Analysis for post-surgery rehabilitation patients

Typical job title: "Gait Analysis Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Physical Therapist Movement Specialist Rehabilitation Therapist Sports Medicine Specialist Biomechanics Specialist Clinical Movement Analyst Orthopedic Physical Therapist

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach complex cases where patients have multiple conditions affecting their gait?

Expected Answer: A senior specialist should discuss their systematic approach to evaluation, explaining how they prioritize issues, coordinate with other healthcare providers, and develop comprehensive treatment plans while considering all contributing factors.

Q: How do you train and mentor junior staff in gait analysis techniques?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership abilities, teaching methods, and how they ensure consistency in assessment techniques across their team while maintaining quality standards.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What assessment tools do you use for gait analysis and why?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain different assessment methods, when to use specific tools, and how they interpret results to create effective treatment plans.

Q: How do you modify treatment plans based on gait analysis findings?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for adapting treatments based on observations, measuring progress, and adjusting strategies for optimal patient outcomes.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components you look for when conducting a gait analysis?

Expected Answer: Should identify basic walking cycle phases, normal walking patterns, and common deviations they look for during assessment.

Q: How do you document your gait analysis findings?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of proper documentation methods, standard terminology, and basic report writing for patient records.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic walking pattern assessment
  • Simple documentation of findings
  • Understanding of normal walking cycles
  • Basic treatment planning

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced movement analysis
  • Complex case assessment
  • Equipment-based analysis
  • Treatment modification skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex case management
  • Team leadership and training
  • Research implementation
  • Program development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on experience with patient assessment
  • Lack of understanding of basic walking patterns
  • Poor documentation skills
  • No experience with treatment planning
  • Unfamiliarity with standard assessment tools

Related Terms