What is Running Analysis?

Running analysis is a detailed, data-driven evaluation of your running mechanics. At Lehman Joint and Performance, we use VUE MOTION®, a 3D motion capture system that precisely tracks your stride, posture, joint angles, and movement patterns, frame by frame.

This allows us to:

  • Pinpoint asymmetries or inefficient mechanics
  • Identify the root causes of pain or recurring injuries
  • Compare your gait to performance standards
  • Create a personalized improvement plan based on real-time data

It’s an ideal tool for runners at all levels, whether you’re logging your first miles or training for a marathon.

Benefits of Running Gait Analysis

Running gait analysis with Dr. Lehman goes beyond observation to deliver objective feedback and actionable changes that can improve your comfort, longevity, and speed.

Key benefits include:

  • Detect and correct imbalances or stride inefficiencies
  • Prevent overuse injuries like shin splints, IT band syndrome, or plantar fasciitis
  • Improve joint alignment, cadence, and foot strike
  • Enhance running economy and energy efficiency
  • Support faster recovery and improved performance metrics

You’ll leave with a clear understanding of your movement and how to optimize it.

Who should get a
Running Analysis?

This service is ideal for:

  • Distance runners, sprinters, and recreational joggers
  • Athletes recovering from lower-body injuries
  • Runners with chronic pain in the knees, hips, or ankles
  • Individuals preparing for races or returning to training
  • Triathletes or endurance athletes seeking performance gains
  • Anyone who wants to move better and run longer, without pain

Conditions identified or improved through Running Analysis

  • Knee pain
  • Runner’s knee
  • Patellofemoral syndrome
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Shin splints
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • IT band syndrome
  • Hip or lower back pain during/after running
  • Recurrent stress fractures or overuse issues

If Dr. Lehman discovers any indication of injury, he may recommend regenerative medicine such as PRP injections or a performance rehabilitation programme.

Our approach

Dr. Lehman brings orthopedic expertise, decades of sports medicine experience, and the latest biomechanical technology to every running assessment. Each session is data-backed, movement-informed, and runner-focused.

  • 3D motion capture with VUE MOTION®
  • Orthopedic evaluation and strength screening
  • Biomechanical review of foot strike, cadence, hip/knee alignment
  • Personalized report with drill/exercise recommendations

Your specialist

Portrait of Dr Rick Lehman
Dr. Rick Lehman

Patient Testimonials

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After tearing my ACL, I though my competitive days were over. But Dr. Lehman and the team at U.S. Center for Sports Medicine didn’t just fix my knee, they helped me rebuild my confidence. The personalized rehab was incredible, and I’m back on the field, stronger than ever. I can’t thank them enough!

Sarah M., Collegiate Soccer player

What to expect during your Running and Gait Analysis

Step-by-step overview:

Dr. Lehman will begin with a brief orthopedic and movement assessment to review your injury history, goals, and baseline function.

You’ll run on a treadmill or flat surface while wearing motion sensors that capture your stride from multiple angles in real time.

Using VUE MOTION®, Dr. Lehman will assess your gait cycle, foot strike, pronation, joint angles, posture, and timing to identify any mechanical issues. Dr. Lehman will analyze your kinetic chain, identify inefficiencies, and explain the key findings.

You’ll receive a tailored set of drills, mobility work, or form changes based on your results. If needed, Dr. Lehman may recommend integrating performance rehab or regenerative orthopedic care.

Dr. Lehman offers re-evaluations to measure improvement over time or track recovery after injury.

Why choose Dr. Lehman for Running Analysis?

  • Nationally recognized orthopedic and sports medicine expert
  • Trusted by professional athletes and endurance runners
  • Advanced gait diagnostics with 3D motion capture
  • Integrated clinic offering rehab, performance training, and injury care
  • Convenient locations in Menlo Park and St. Louis
  • Board-certified physician with over 30 years in sports performance
  • Helping runners of all ages move pain-free and perform at their best

Frequently asked questions

It’s a motion capture assessment that evaluates your running form to identify inefficiencies and reduce your risk of injury.

Most sessions last 60–90 minutes, including consultation, data capture, and plan review.

No, runners of all levels, including beginners and rehab patients, benefit from gait analysis.

Yes. Dr. Lehman will provide you with a report with specific drills, form adjustments, and mobility work tailored to your body and goals.

Absolutely. Gait analysis is a powerful tool for diagnosing contributing factors to injuries and creating a safer path back to running.

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Ready to Run better, stronger, and pain free?

Book your personalized running gait analysis today and take the first step toward optimized movement and injury-free performance.