Have you ever really paid attention to the way you walk?

It might not seem like a big deal, but your gait—the pattern of how you walk—can say a lot about your health. From foot pain to posture problems, your gait can be the first clue that something's not quite right.

At Peak Podiatry, we often spot issues just by watching how someone moves across the room. What’s even better? Fixing your gait can often lead to major improvements in how you feel—from your feet to your lower back.

Let’s take a closer look at why your gait matters, what it might be saying about your body, and how we can help if something’s off.

What is Gait?

“Gait” just means how you walk or run. It’s a mix of movements involving your feet, legs, hips, and even your arms. Everyone has a slightly different gait, and it’s usually something we don’t notice—until it starts causing pain.

When podiatrists assess your gait, we’re looking at things like:

• How your foot hits the ground

• Whether your arches collapse or stay supported

• If your toes point in or out

• Whether one side is doing more work than the other

• How smooth or “off” your movement pattern looks

Why Gait Matters

Think of your gait like the foundation of a house. If that foundation is off—even a little—it can lead to cracks and issues further up. In your body, that means:

• Foot pain

• Knee, hip, or lower back pain

• Muscle strain

• Balance problems

• Increased risk of injury during sport or daily life

Small gait problems might go unnoticed for years, but over time they can lead to wear and tear that limits your mobility, performance, and comfort.

What Your Gait Might Be Telling You

Here are some common gait issues and what they could mean:

1. Overpronation (Foot Rolls Inward Too Much)

What it looks like: Your arches flatten when you walk, and your ankles roll inward.
What it can cause: Heel pain, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, knee pain.
Often seen in: People with flat feet or flexible arches.

2. Supination (Foot Rolls Outward Too Much)

What it looks like: You walk more on the outside edges of your feet.
What it can cause: Ankle sprains, Achilles pain, outer knee or hip pain.
Often seen in: People with high arches or stiff feet.

3. Limping or Uneven Stride

What it looks like: One side moves differently—maybe you limp slightly, or one step is shorter.
What it can cause: Joint or muscle pain from overcompensating.
Could be due to: An old injury, leg length difference, or muscle weakness.

4. Shuffling or Dragging Feet

What it looks like: Your steps are short or you shuffle your feet.
What it can cause: Trips, falls, reduced balance.
Could be due to: Neurological conditions, balance issues, or joint stiffness.

5. Toe-Walking (Mainly in Children)

What it looks like: Walking mostly on the balls of the feet or toes.
What it can cause: Tight calves, poor balance, possible developmental concerns.
When to act: If it continues beyond age 3 or causes pain.

How We Assess Your Gait at Peak Podiatry

We use a mix of clinical observation and technology to watch how your body moves. Here's what we might do during your appointment:

• Watch you walk or run across the room

• Check foot posture and arch height

• Use gait analysis software (in some cases)

• Assess muscle strength and flexibility

• Look at your footwear and insoles (if any)

Once we understand your gait, we can tailor a treatment plan to fix or support it.

How We Help Fix Gait Problems

You don’t have to live with poor movement. Depending on what we find, we might recommend:

• Custom insoles (orthotics) to support your feet and correct movement

• Targeted strengthening or stretching exercises

• Footwear advice or changes

• Laser therapy if there’s pain or inflammation

• Manual therapy to release tight or sore muscles

The goal is always the same: Get you moving better and feeling better.

Why Fixing Your Gait Can Change Everything

When your gait improves, you might notice:

• Less pain in your feet, knees, or back

• Better posture

• More comfort during daily activities or sports

• Fewer injuries or flare-ups

• A more confident, balanced walk

It’s a small change that can make a huge difference.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to be an athlete or runner to care about your gait. If you’ve got foot pain, balance issues, or just feel “off” when you walk, your gait could be the key.

At Peak Podiatry in Galway and Limerick, we help people walk more comfortably every day. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your feet—they’re trying to tell you something.

Think Your Gait Might Be Causing Problems?

Let’s take a look together. Book a gait assessment at Peak Podiatry today and take the first step toward better movement.