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Home Treatment Methods Gait Analysis

Boost Performance and Avoid Injury with Customized 3D Running Gait Analysis in NYC

Competitive runners are always looking for new ways to gain a competitive edge and reduce injury risk. Training, nutrition and recovery can all make a difference, but unless your body moves like a well-oiled machine, you are bound to fall short of your goals. To optimize performance, you need a comprehensive and objective way of evaluating your running technique, to uncover minor defects that can cause major issues.

Technology-driven 3D running gait analysis collects and analyzes quantitative data about critical gait parameters in all 3 planes of motion, rendering precise metrics for detecting inefficient gait mechanics, and providing a baseline for measuring progress.

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We’re located on 25th street in Manhattan NYC.
Open Monday-Friday, 10am-8pm.

table of contents

Who is Dr. Lev Kalika? What is 3D gait analysis, and what sets it apart from conventional analysis? How does technology improve the results of running gait analysis? How can 3D running gait analysis help to prevent injuries? What other diagnostic tools are used for gait analysis at NYDNRehab? How are the results of my 3D running analysis presented and interpreted? Can NYDNRehab help me with my running injuries? How can I use my results to improve my running performance? Running Gait Analysis FAQs

About Functional Gait Specialist Dr. Lev Kalika

Dr. Lev Kalika
Dr. Lev Kalika

Clinical director & DC RMSK

Dr. Lev Kalika is a holistic practitioner of integrative healthcare and Clinical Director at NYDNRehab in Manhattan NYC. He has dedicated his life’s work to finding innovative solutions for treating athletic injuries, human movement disorders, and pain syndromes. Dr. Kalika is also an accomplished researcher, with multiple scientific publications to his credit.

Dr. Kalika has over 20 years of experience in gait analysis interpretation, earning him multiple national awards in the field of running and sports medicine. He had the privilege of studying gait analysis directly under Christopher Powers and Irene Davis, two of the world’s most eminent leaders in running research.

Dr. Kalika’s expertise in diagnostic ultrasonography has gained him international recognition, and the clinic at NYDNRehab features the most advanced high-resolution ultrasonography currently available. The ability to dynamically visualize nerves, muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints in real time plays a key role in identifying issues that contribute to running gait deficits. The biomechanics analysis lab at NYDNRehab is equipped with cutting-edge technologies that take the guesswork out of running gait assessment. Our clinic has been named multiple times by Runner’s World magazine as the place to go in NYC for running gait analysis and running injury rehabilitation.

3D Gait Analysis Takes Running
Performance to the Next Level

Many sports retailers, gyms, and athletic programs offer gait analysis services for runners, but they vary broadly in terms of quality, objectivity and precision, and most only evaluate movement in the sagittal and frontal planes of motion. Yet most running injuries originate from motion in the transverse plane, where inefficient mechanics cannot be detected by the human eye.

During running, the pelvis rotates contralaterally and ipsilaterally in the transverse plane, relative to the trunk and lower extremities. Contralateral rotation – toward the opposite leg – occurs during the terminal stance phase and approaching the toe-off phase. Ipsilateral rotation – toward the same leg – begins at initial contact and increases until midway through the stance phase. Research indicates that insufficient contralateral rotation during the stance phase is associated with increased risk of injury.

Observational and 2-dimensional gait analysis, even when conducted by a qualified expert, is not able to detect risky movement patterns in the rotational plane that cause the majority of running injuries. By contrast, technology-driven 3D gait analysis detects and quantifies motion in the transverse plane, giving us data that can be used to personalize your corrective gait training, to deliver measurable improvements in running performance and dramatically reduce injury risk.

Our Tech-Driven 3D Running Lab is Second to None

Conventional running gait analysis gives us a 2-dimensional overview of running kinetics (a measure of forces) and kinematics (a measure of position, velocity and acceleration) in the frontal and sagittal planes of motion. While that information is not without value, it neglects to provide information about mechanical deficits in the transverse (rotational) plane, where most running injuries originate. At NYDNRehab, advancements in technology have revolutionized gait analysis by enabling us to objectively measure, and scrutinize a broad range of critical running metrics in all 3 planes of motion. Armed with that data, we coach and retrain our runners by leveraging technology-generated feedback, personalized physical therapy, and customized training programs. We monitor your progress every step of the way, to ensure that your training protocol is achieving its intended goals.

Our technological toolbox includes:

Noraxon Instrumented Pressure-Sensitive Treadmill

Our one-of-a-kind instrumented treadmill measures intrinsic foot mechanics during running – a feature not available with other gait analysis systems. It uses sensors to capture ground reaction forces and pressure distribution across the foot. A new study out of Brazil emphasizes the important role of foot pressure in running mechanics.

The way the foot makes contact with the ground and positions itself during the heel strike, stance, and push off phases is perhaps the most valuable information we derive from running analysis. This critical data can only be attained by a pressure-sensitive treadmill, which is rarely available, even in well-equipped 3D running analysis systems.

Benefits of using an instrumented treadmill include:

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Real-time analysis of running gait.

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Diagnostic precision, with data collected by pressure sensors to identify key gait anomalies and biomechanical deficits.

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Reproducibility, allowing for repeat assessments with defined variabilities.

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Real-time visual feedback, providing valuable insights that allow subjects to make immediate adjustments.

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Captures key gait metrics like stride length, gait variability, and gait cycle symmetry.

Helix 3D RunDNA System

The RunDNA system collects quantitative data that takes the guesswork out of gait analysis. Your personal running data is analyzed and presented to you in an easy-to-understand report that clearly pinpoints your running deficits. We then use that information to help you fine-tune your running performance.

Proprietary Analytic Software

Dr. Kalika has integrated his own proprietary software to optimize data collection and analysis.

3D Motion Capture Camera System

Our 3D motion capture system uses multiple cameras to capture data on 3D movement, to give us a detailed analysis of gait mechanics.

How It Works:

Markers are strategically placed on designated anatomical landmarks

Our instrumented force- and pressure-sensitive treadmill is synced with the motion capture system

Sophisticated software collects and analyzes data

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2nd

3rd

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Motion capture cameras are calibrated

The runner performs at their normal gait

A 17-page report is generated

Retest is only 50% of the price

Cometa Surface EMG

Surface electromyography (SEMG) is essential for revealing the neuromuscular control that drives running gait.

SEMG gives us insight into:

  • Muscle activation timing – the point at which muscles turn on and off during gait
  • Muscle firing amplitude (signal intensity)
  • Neuromuscular coordination patterns
  • Compensatory patterns, where muscles over- or under-activate
  • Fatigue or repetition effects that occur over time
  • Biofeedback insights that can be used for rehabilitative gait retraining

During running gait, muscles are recruited in a specific sequence that optimizes force production and protects dynamic stability. Injured tissues, densified fascia, and habitual compensation patterns can alter muscle recruitment as proprioceptors signal the brain to offload damaged tissues. SEMG helps us detect inefficient muscle firing patterns that reduce performance and increase injury risk.

Our technological toolbox also includes:

High resolution diagnostic ultrasonography

Most running injuries and mechanical deficits cannot be measured or observed with even the most sophisticated gait analysis system. In many cases, compensation patterns are mistaken for the cause of injury, when in fact they are the result of other mechanical issues. High resolution diagnostic ultrasonography combined with a running-specific clinical assessment lets us accurately identify the primary factors that cause pain and diminish running performance.

Dynamic motion ultrasonography

For the first time ever, USONO dynamic ultrasonography lets us observe the joints and muscles in motion as you run, via a wearable device. Motion ultrasonography lets us distinguish causative versus compensatory factors, a key advantage when treating running injuries. Dynamic ultrasound imaging is especially useful for runners with current injuries, or with a history of prior injuries.

ForceFrame Max muscle testing system

Most runners develop muscle imbalances and compensation patterns over time that reduce running efficiency. ForceFrame lets us test individual muscle groups on both sides of the body for strength and symmetry, to identify areas that are out of sync.

KINEO computerized muscle analysis

KINEO is a computerized system that objectively analyzes muscle function and strength. With KINEO, muscle deficits can be objectively evaluated and quantified, providing a baseline to monitor your progress, and offering multiple training modalities to improve your performance.

3D Running Analysis Reduces Running-Related Injuries

Running is a convenient and accessible sport for achieving optimal fitness, but it comes with a relatively high rate of injury. Multiple factors can influence your risk of injury, such as age, sex, nutrition status, biomechanics, and training variables. One recent study involving 225 runners found that 52% had experienced a running injury, and that specific measures of running technique were associated with increased injury risk.

Whether you’re a novice runner in need of coaching, or a seasoned competitor looking for a competitive edge, 3D gait analysis and retraining can help you optimize your running performance while dramatically reducing your injury risk.

Common running injuries include:

  • Stress fractures
  • Medial tibial stress syndrome
  • Patellofemoral syndrome (runner’s knee)
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis

A 3D gait analysis can help you fend off injuries before they happen while improving overall performance. Biomechanical variables associated with running-related injuries include kinematic variables (joint angles, velocity, and acceleration), kinetic variables (force production, loading rate), and temporospatial variables (cadence, pace and stride). All of these variables are factored in when designing your customized retraining protocol.

A 3D gait analysis can help you fend off injuries before they happen while improving overall performance. Biomechanical variables associated with running-related injuries include kinematic variables (joint angles, velocity, and acceleration), kinetic variables (force production, loading rate), and temporospatial variables (cadence, pace and stride). All of these variables are factored in when designing your customized retraining protocol.

By identifying and correcting biomechanical factors associated with injury risk, you can expect to:

  • Eliminate foot, knee and hip pain caused by gait mechanical errors
  • Improve energy efficiency by enhancing muscle coordination patterns
  • Run faster and farther without getting winded or fatigued
  • Find your optimal pace and stride for distance runs and marathons
  • Dramatically reduce your risk of injury from overuse and impact forces
  • Prolong your years of pain-free running enjoyment

Our Diagnostic Expertise Puts the Cherry on the Cake

Most running injuries and mechanical deficits cannot be measured or observed by even the most sophisticated gait analysis system. In many cases, compensation patterns are mistaken for the cause of injury, when in fact they are the result of other mechanical issues.

High resolution diagnostic ultrasonography combined with a running-specific clinical assessment lets us accurately identify the primary factors that cause pain and diminish running performance. Unless we look beyond the data to discover minute factors that contribute to gait deficits, retraining and rehabilitation may only provide short-term solutions that unravel over time.

Dr. Kalika’s expertise and experience in diagnostic ultrasonography means we won’t miss a thing, ensuring that your rehabilitation is thorough and effective. Our sophisticated technology gives us the ability to measure and remeasure your critical gait parameters, to ensure that you get back on the road in peak condition.

Get Fast, Detailed and Actionable
Results

At the end of your running analysis, our proprietary software generates a 17-page, easy-to-interpret report that highlights areas for improvement. In addition, we provide detailed findings from your clinical and ultrasound exams. Equipped with that information, you can make sound decisions about your next steps to optimize your running performance.

Your 17-page report provides valuable insights such as:

  • Normalized force calculations
  • Plantar surface zone analysis
  • Velocity-related gait parameter norms
  • Gait and foot contact patterns
  • Bilateral pressure distribution data
  • Single-step rollover analysis
  • Dynamic and static balance data
  • Much more!
You can use this information on your own to up your training game, or take advantage of our advanced technologies and services with a customized training program, based on your unique needs and supported by our expertise.

Access Advanced Tools for Injury Rehab

If you have a current running injury or an old injury that has not been fully rehabilitated, NYDNRehab is the clinic of choice for sports injury rehab in NYC. Our regenerative technologies, orthobiologic procedures and fascia-first approach to treatment work together to accelerate the healing process and restore functional mobility.

Injury rehab begins with the restoration of tissue integrity. Most injuries involve multiple tissue types, each with its unique treatment requirements. Damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves needs to be addressed before physical therapy can begin.

Injury pretreatment may involve:

  • Ultrasound-guided dry needling to eliminate myofascial trigger points
  • Stecco myofascial release to restore fascial integrity
  • Orthobiologic injections to stimulate healing in stubborn ligaments and tendons
  • Fascial layer hydrodissection to eliminate adhesions and release nerves and blood vessels
  • Multifocal shockwave therapy to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote tissue healing
  • Electromagnetic transduction therapy to trigger a regenerative response
  • Radiofrequency therapy to restore the ionic charge of damaged cells
  • Blood flow restriction training, to strengthen supporting structures without overloading healing tissues.
Once your injured tissues are restored, we can begin personalized physical therapy to optimize your running performance. We use high-resolution ultrasound to monitor your progress and confirm the effectiveness of your treatment protocol. Our end goal is to get you back on the road at peak performance levels, without pain or restrictions.
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NYDNRehab's Running Lab Provides a One-Stop-Shop
Experience for Analysis and Training

While most running analysis is founded on scientific principles, it can vary greatly in terms of quality, scope, and utility. Sports retailers may offer “expert” analysis that is mostly observational, with the goal of selling running shoes or promoting running workshops. Physical therapy and sports rehab clinics may incorporate 2-dimensional video analysis to pinpoint observable gait deficits. But without objective data in 3 dimensions backed by diagnostic expertise, critical information can be overlooked.

At NYDNRehab, our comprehensive running gait analysis delivers detailed information that can be acted upon to fine-tune your running mechanics and reduce your risk of injury. By objectifying performance parameters, we are able to create customized training programs and accurately measure your progress. You can expect to see noticeable improvements in your running performance while dramatically reducing your injury risk, for years of pain-free running and the fitness benefits that come with them.

Our Awards

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    Range of Available Unique Physical Therapy
    Treatments at Nydnrehab

    Clinical Case Studies
    NYDNRehab

    Case Study: Runner’s Pain

    Our Patient Our patient is a 33 year-old female runner complaining of hamstring and calf tightness, and posterior knee pain in both legs. The pain began in 2015, but she continued to run. The Challenge The patient had seen numerous running physical therapists and had undergone multiple gait analyses without any results. Five years prior […]

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    Case Study: Fascial Manipulation and ESWT for Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

    Our Patient Our patient is a 33 year-old female runner who was in training for the New York City Marathon, only three weeks away. She presented with lateral parapatellar knee pain. She had been treated with four weeks of physical therapy exercises and stretching, without any satisfactory results. The Challenge With the marathon race just […]

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    3D Running Analysis FAQs

    What is 3D running analysis and how does it work?
    3D running analysis is a biomechanical assessment that uses advanced motion capture technology to create a 3D model of a runner’s gait. It analyzes joint angles, stride mechanics, and other kinematic data to evaluate running efficiency and injury risk. Data is analyzed and interpreted, and a comprehensive report is generated with your results.
    How long does it take to complete a comprehensive 3D gait analysis?
    You should plan on spending up to 3 hours to complete your 3D gait analysis, which includes time for marker placement, data collection while running, and analysis and discussion of your results. At NYDNRehab, we also include additional assessments, a clinical exam, and an ultrasound exam.
    What should I wear for my 3D running gait analysis?
    Wear cool, non-restrictive clothing and running shoes in good condition. You may want to wear warm-up gear over your running clothes, and bring a towel and a dry change of clothing for after your assessment. It’s a good idea to bring a water bottle, and avoid heavy meals or intense workouts prior to your session.
    What is the next step after I complete my 3D gait analysis?
    You can opt to request a personalized gait retraining program. Your program may include strengthening exercises, posture correction training, foot core training, intrinsic and extrinsic feedback training and other gait-specific activities. You may also benefit from treatment modalities like myofascial release, trigger point dry needling, shockwave therapy, and other non-invasive regenerative therapies. If new or untreated injuries are detected, you may require running injury rehabilitation.
    Who can benefit from a 3D running analysis?
    Due to the high incidence of running injuries, a 3D running analysis can provide a safeguard to ensure that your running mechanics are optimized. Just like a car that needs an occasional tuneup, your body can develop mechanical issues that need to be fine-tuned from time to time.

    Certificates and Continuing Education

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    Research at NYDNRehab

    Dillon, Sarah, et al. "Running towards injury? A prospective investigation of factors associated with running injuries." PloS one 18.8 (2023): e0288814.Running towards injury? A prospective investigation of factors associated with running injuries
    Martinez, Caitlyn, et al. "Comparison of 2-D and 3-D analysis of running kinematics and actual versus predicted running kinetics." International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy 17.4 (2022): 566.Comparison of 2-D and 3-D analysis of running kinematics and actual versus predicted running kinetics
    Suda, E. Y., et al. "Running intralimb coordination patterns after a foot core exercise program in recreational runners." Brazilian journal of medical and biological research 57 (2024): e13124.Running intralimb coordination patterns after a foot core exercise program in recreational runners
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    Physical therapy and rehab can be time consuming,
    and a faulty diagnosis can make treatment a total waste of time.

    Failure to accurately diagnose a condition in its early stages can lead to chronic
    problems and sometimes devastating results

    Diagnostic musculoskeletal sonography (MSUS) provides the perfect tool for the rehab practitioner. Yet many doctors and physical therapists have no experience with MSUS, are unaware of its advantages, and have no idea how to use it as a diagnostic tool.

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    Below is a prime example of how ultrasound can take the guesswork out of diagnosis.

    Learn more »
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    Accurate Diagnosis Is the ONLY way to
    Successful Treatment
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    A bad physical therapy experience is one of the primary causes of unnecessary surgery

    At NYDNR, we believe in
    medical innovation

    We have equipped our clinic with the latest research-grade technology to arrive at objective and accurate diagnoses, and to objectively measure our patients’ progress.

    • С.A.R.E.N.
    • Kineo
    • Proteus shoulder arm recovery
    • Zebris
    • Manuthera 242
    • ESWT
    • Vertimax
    • Ankle Stabilizing Device
    • Blood Flow Restriction
    С.A.R.E.N. С.A.R.E.N. Kineo Kineo
    Proteus shoulder atm recovery Proteus shoulder atm recovery Zebris Zebris
    Manuthera 242 Manuthera 242 ESWT ESWT
    Vertimax Vertimax Ankle Stabilizing Device Ankle Stabilizing Device Blood Flow Restriction Blood Flow Restriction Training
    • Aplio i800
    • Vibration Platform
    • Sensa mat
    • Force Plate
    • Fascial Gun
    • ShooTools Slider
    • Redcord
    • Cryo Therapy
    • Skier's Edge
    Aplio i800 Aplio i800 Vibration Platform Vibration Platform Sensa mat Sensa mat
    Force Plate Force Plate Fascial Gun Fascial Gun ShooTools Slider ShooTools Slider
    Redcord Redcord Cryo Therapy Cryo Therapy Skier's Edge Skier's Edge

    Most importantly,

    we are the only facility in the US

    where structural medical diagnosis is reflected in functional treatment, and vice versa.

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    In this instance, an athlete was originally diagnosed with minor quadriceps muscle strain and was treated for four weeks, with unsatisfactory results. When he came to our clinic, the muscle was not healing, and the patients’ muscle tissue had already begun to atrophy.

    Upon examination using MSUS, we discovered that he had a full muscle thickness tear that had been overlooked by his previous provider. To mitigate damage and promote healing, surgery should have been performed immediately after the injury occurred. Because of misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, the patient now has permanent damage that cannot be corrected.

    The most important advantage of Ultrasound over MRI imaging is its ability to zero in on the symptomatic region and obtain imaging, with active participation and feedback from the patient. Using dynamic MSUS, we can see what happens when patients contract their muscles, something that cannot be done with MRI. From a diagnostic perspective, this interaction is invaluable.

    Dynamic ultrasonography examination demonstrating
    the full thickness tear and already occurring muscle atrophy
    due to misdiagnosis and not referring the patient
    to proper diagnostic workup

    Demonstration of how very small muscle defect is made and revealed
    to be a complete tear with muscle contraction
    under diagnostic sonography (not possible with MRI)

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    Complete tear of rectus femoris
    with large hematoma (blood)

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    Separation of muscle ends due to tear elicited
    on dynamic sonography examination

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