Gait Analysis and Custom Orthotics in Edmonton: What to Expect
Gait analysis is an assessment of how you walk or run, used to find movement patterns that contribute to pain in the feet, knees, hips, or lower back. At Trust Care Physiotherapy in Edmonton, it often pairs with a 3D foot scan and, when appropriate, custom orthotics: shoe inserts made to your feet to improve how you load and move. The result is a targeted plan, not a guess.
This guide explains what gait analysis measures, how the foot scan works, who benefits from custom orthotics, what coverage looks like, and what a first visit involves.
What is gait analysis?
Gait analysis is a structured look at the mechanics of your walking and running. A physiotherapist observes and measures how your foot strikes the ground, how your ankle, knee, and hip move through each step, your balance, and your timing from one side to the other. Small inefficiencies, such as the foot rolling inward too far or a hip that does not control the leg well, can build up over thousands of steps a day and show up as pain somewhere along the chain.
The point of the assessment is to connect a symptom to its cause. Heel pain, shin splints, or a nagging knee are often driven by how you load, not just where it hurts.
Gait findings guide hands-on treatment and the exercises that address the real cause of your symptoms.
How does a 3D foot scan work?
A 3D foot scan captures the exact shape and pressure map of your feet. You stand or step on a scanner, and it records your arch profile, pressure points, and how weight distributes across each foot. Combined with the movement findings from your gait assessment, the scan gives an objective picture your physiotherapist uses to decide whether footwear changes, exercises, orthotics, or a combination will help most.
Who benefits from custom orthotics?
Custom orthotics are prescribed inserts designed from your foot scan and assessment, not off-the-shelf cushions. They can help when your mechanics are contributing to a problem, including:
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain that flares with standing or first steps in the morning
- Flat feet or high arches that overload certain tissues
- Recurring shin splints, knee, or hip pain linked to how you land
- Foot pain from standing or walking all day at work
- Diabetes-related foot care, where pressure offloading matters
Orthotics work best as one part of a plan. For many people, targeted strengthening and footwear advice do just as much of the work, which is why an assessment comes first rather than defaulting straight to an insert.
Custom orthotics work best alongside a tailored exercise and footwear plan.
What happens at a gait analysis appointment?
Your physiotherapist takes a history of your symptoms, footwear, and activity, then assesses your standing posture, foot mobility, and strength. You walk and, if relevant, run so your movement can be observed, and a 3D foot scan is taken. From there you get a clear explanation of what is driving your symptoms and a plan, which may include exercises, footwear guidance, and custom orthotics if they are the right tool for you. No physician referral is needed to book.
Frequently asked questions about gait analysis and orthotics
Do I need a referral for gait analysis or custom orthotics?
No. In Alberta you can see a physiotherapist directly for a gait assessment and, if appropriate, a custom orthotic prescription, without a doctor's referral.
Are custom orthotics covered by benefits?
Many extended health benefit plans cover custom orthotics when they are prescribed after an assessment, though coverage and documentation requirements vary by plan. It is worth checking your specific plan before your appointment.
What is the difference between custom and over-the-counter orthotics?
Over-the-counter inserts are generic cushions. Custom orthotics are made from a scan of your own feet and your assessment findings, so they address your specific mechanics. Which one suits you depends on your problem, and that is what the assessment determines.
How long do custom orthotics last?
With regular use, custom orthotics commonly last a few years before they need replacing, depending on your activity level, body weight, and footwear. Your physiotherapist can advise on care and replacement timing.
Book a gait analysis in Edmonton
At Trust Care Physiotherapy in Edmonton, gait analysis and custom orthotics are assessment-led: we look at the whole movement chain, explain what we find, and only recommend orthotics when they fit your goals. It is a practical option whether you are managing foot pain, returning to running, or on your feet all day.
To book, visit trustcarephysio.ca or call (825) 525-2983.
This article is general information and does not replace an individual assessment by a registered physiotherapist.
