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The state-of-the-art facility, known as a ‘gait lab’, provides support for adults and children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and neurological problems affecting movement and coordination. It will also support people experiencing foot pressure problems linked to conditions like diabetes.

The only one of its kind in the region, the lab provides a range of services, including high-tech 2D and 3D analysis of how a person walks, the movement of their body, muscle activity, and the forces in play around the joints during walking.

Data and information provided by the gait lab’s technology and expert analysis is used by doctors, physiotherapists, podiatrists and other medical professionals to help precise surgical and treatment planning, supporting patients to achieve a better quality of life.

As one of only 16 accredited gait labs in the UK and Ireland, the service has seen a rapid period of growth, with demand increasing in recent years. The service now expects to undertake over 200 complex assessments every year.

Jane Gilman, advanced physiotherapist and gait lab lead, commented: “Our new lab represents a significant improvement in our measurement capabilities and offers a fantastic regional facility, housing the latest equipment and technology”. 

“The demolition of the previous facility at the Centre for Aging and Vitality called for a new and improved lab and this is an excellent resource for patients from across the whole region.

“Without it, people would have to travel much further afield, as the nearest appropriate alternatives are in Edinburgh or Sheffield.”