A Real Case from Our Brantford Podiatry Clinic
Sometimes, it’s not the dramatic changes that make the biggest difference in patient outcomes—it’s the precise, measured adjustments guided by the right tools.
We had a great reminder of this recently in our Brantford clinic while reviewing a patient using our advanced video gait analysis system.
Tracking Progress After Hip Replacement Surgery
The patient had been fitted with custom orthotics 12 months ago to help manage functional instability. He returned for a follow-up three months after undergoing a right hip replacement, having previously had his left hip replaced three years ago due to osteoarthritis.
While his recovery was progressing exceptionally well, he noted that something still felt “off”—specifically, a sense of imbalance.
This is not uncommon. Structural changes following joint replacement can significantly alter biomechanics, even when rehabilitation is going smoothly.
What Gait Analysis Revealed
Using our treadmill-based video gait analysis, we were able to objectively assess his walking pattern and compare it to previous recordings. The system also enables side-by-side viewing of synchronized “old” and “new” video captures to detect and measure change.
The findings were telling:
- The previously noted limb length discrepancy had resolved
- The heel strike angle on the right side had improved significantly
- Overpronation at heel strike was notably reduced
These changes indicated that his biomechanics had evolved post-surgery—meaning his orthotics needed to evolve as well.
Why Small Orthotic Adjustments Matter
Based on these findings, we made targeted modifications to his right orthotic:
- Removed a 5mm heel lift that was no longer necessary
- Reduced rearfoot corrective posting
These are subtle adjustments, but they matter. This also mean we can with confidence adjust your present device without the necessity to make new devices and incur more expense.
Overcorrection can be just as problematic as undercorrection. Without objective measurement tools like video gait analysis, it’s nearly impossible to accurately assess progress or fine-tune treatment.
The Role of Video Gait Analysis in Podiatric Care
At our clinic, we use systems like PediGait every day to:
- Monitor biomechanical changes over time
- Optimize orthotic prescriptions
- Support post-surgical recovery
- Improve overall functional movement
This technology allows both clinicians and patients to see what’s happening—making complex biomechanical concepts easier to understand and more actionable.
Footwear Matters More Than You Think
One of the biggest challenges we encounter is helping patients understand the impact of footwear on function.
When needed, we demonstrate this directly by having patients walk in different types of shoes during gait analysis. The differences are often dramatic—and once seen, rarely forgotten.
Education Is the Foundation of Better Outcomes
At the end of the day, effective treatment relies on understanding.
Health education is the cornerstone of good clinical practice. If patients don’t clearly understand the origin of their condition and the purpose behind their treatment plan, adherence becomes unlikely.
Our goal is always to empower patients with knowledge—because informed patients get better results.
