Endurance sports are beneficial for health and for the figure. The number of those who want to join recreational joggers is increasing. To avoid damage to joints and discs, appropriate running shoes should be purchased with the help of a treadmill analysis. Evaluating the movement pattern is also useful in determining orthopedically necessary foot orthotics for foot deformities.
What is treadmill analysis?
A treadmill analysis is the determination and evaluation of a pattern of movement of the feet while walking on a treadmill, as well as the posture shown while doing so. A treadmill analysis is the determination and evaluation of a movement pattern of the feet while running over a treadmill as well as the body posture shown during this process. This is intended to provide insight into any peculiarities and misalignments of the feet and other limbs, as well as to detect postural errors of the runner. Many devices use pressure sensors to measure the forces that occur when the feet hit the treadmill. The entire posture and movement restrictions as well as malpositions can also be videographed during running and evaluated by means of a special computer program. The various video sequences can be measured by computer. Based on the measurement results, the angles of movement of the individual joints become revealingly clear. This allows existing malpositions of the joints to be identified. The repetition of the running test in slow motion can also provide informative findings for the person concerned through the precise observation of their own running behavior. Especially when choosing the first running shoes, a treadmill analysis is a good aid to the purchase decision. Due to possible changes, however, it is also advisable to repeat the treadmill analysis. By identifying restricted or inhibited movements, there is the possibility to change the running style advantageously.
Function, effect and goals
Treadmill analysis is often performed to optimize running style and when purchasing new shoes. However, without complementary measures, treadmill analysis is not a substitute for required sports medicine examinations. A detailed movement analysis should be carried out by a sports physician if the reason for painful complaints during running is to be found out. Depending on the symptoms, an examination of the feet, legs, hips or spine may be necessary to identify the problem. Most running problems are caused by malpositions of the feet. The aim of the treadmill analysis is also the prevention of impending complaints. In case of excessive stress on bones and ligaments, excellent cushioning properties of the running shoe are necessary. The predominant ground conditions of the runner’s route, the body weight and the training frequency are of importance. Shoes with special fits or reinforcements, shoe inserts or physiotherapeutic advice can also help to improve complaints in runners. Recommendations from sports physicians or orthopedists are more detailed and well-founded than advice from specialist salespeople in sports stores. The expert evaluation of treadmill analyses and motion sequences can identify not only foot malpositions but also differences in leg lengths or an incorrect center of gravity in posture. Prior to a treadmill or motion analysis by a sports physician, there is first a personal discussion between the physician and the runner to present complaints and intentions for change. This is followed by a thorough orthopedic examination. The mobility of the joints is checked. For treadmill analysis, marker points are placed on the spine, hips, legs and buttocks. This is to prepare the muscle displacements for evaluation by video analysis. The treadmill test uses the shoes that the runner is currently using in training. The specific wear and tear on the outsole could provide initial clues to a cause of the problem. An initial treadmill test is done barefoot or in socks to determine problems that are not caused by the shoes. This is done to determine the touchdown and roll-off behavior and whether, for example, the runner touches down with the heel first. After the run with the runner’s shoes, a third test can also be performed with other sports shoes for the purpose of comparative evaluations.Depending on the findings based on the treadmill analysis, a final consultation takes place with the affected person about measures to be taken and changes to be made. These may include orthopedic shoe inserts, foam supports, running shoes with special properties or changes in running style and technique.
Risks, side effects and dangers
Treadmill analyses can be performed in sports stores, medical supply stores, physiotherapeutic practices and fitness studios. One problem is formed by the motion analysis that is often required as a supplement. There is often a lack of the necessary technology and trained personnel. It also makes a serious difference whether only the purchase of sports shoes is prepared from the runner’s point of view or whether complaints are to be determined. Those who want to jog permanently and buy a pair of running shoes for the first time for this reason should not neglect to check their health conditions. In any case, when evaluating the quality of a running track analysis, not only the quality of the equipment should play a role. There are other factors to consider such as:
- Consultation to determine background information about the runner.
- Training and expertise of the service provider performing the service.
- Experience with device operation
- Motivation of the analyst, he should be a runner himself
- Duration and scope of the analysis
When assessing a motion sequence, it is necessary to work with optimal accuracy. Small deviations can affect the effectiveness of change measures. Simple mistakes are often made. These include, among other things, that the affected person does not stand on the device in sportswear. In some cases, the test also begins immediately after the person steps onto the treadmill, without having run in. It is also insufficient if the test takes place without a prior interview. To find a suitable place to perform a treadmill analysis, it is a good idea to interview experienced runners.
