How veterans can measure minimal alterations in their body mechanics

"Body mechanics" sounds complicated, and it can be – but it's basically a term to explain the connection between different parts of the body and how they can affect each other. More specifically, the kinetic chain is a concept that asserts how all segments of the body are interconnected in a system where movement at one joint has an impact on other joints in the chain.

Because of this kinetic chain, it's important for veterans to understand how alterations in their body mechanics (AKA doing something a little differently due to an injury or illness) can affect other parts of the body. For example, your leg pain could be causing your back pain. It's important for their health and VA disability benefits claim.

But what happens when your doctor documents a normal gait, but you're experiencing chronic issues and pain? When the visual method fails, you have a few options.

Here's are a few ways that veterans can measure minimal alterations in their body mechanics due to the physical demands of the military:

Pressure mapping

In order to assess your gait closer than the visual method, you can try pressure mapping. This analysis offers a detailed look at where the feet hold the most pressure, often revealing any imbalances that would be too small to the naked eye.

During a pressure mapping analysis, the veteran would walk over a pressure sensitive mat that collects data on areas of the foot that receive the most and least pressure.

Electromyography (EMG) gait analysis

An electromyography (EMG) can diagnose abnormalities in gait by recording electrical activity produced by muscles. The contraction and relaxation of muscles while walking generates electric signals that can be detected by electrodes (small devices that can read measurements), in turn identifying which muscles are underactive or overcompensating.

A surface EMG involves placing electrodes on the skin while moving, whereas a needle EMG inserts directly into the muscle. Your doctor will determine which EMG is best for you.

Gait analysis apps and wearable devices

Whether you use your smartphone in your pocket or try a wearable device, gait analysis apps and wearables can be helpful in detecting abnormalities that might not be visual. Thanks to mini sensors in your phone or the device, step timing and symmetry can be captured, along with impact force and range of motion in some more advanced devices.

You could try a gait analysis device like RunScribe or a smartphone app like OneStep.

The VA often denies these cases without clear evidence

Unfortunately, we see the VA denying a lot of cases even when chronic pain is present – if the veteran doesn't have clear documentation of their gait. We recommend approaching your primary care doctor for more testing methods beyond just visual assessment. With the right documentation, you'll be able to establish a link from one part of the body to another, potentially earning secondary to service connection.

Get the right documentation for your VA disability benefits claim

Don't waste time and money – get the right documents for your claim from the start. A strong VA disability benefits claim required proper medical documentation. Nexus Letters, DBQs, chart reviews, and more can make your claim a compelling one. Sign up for a chart review, and view other services here.

Related: Need foot or ankle-friendly exercises you can do at home? Read this blog.