GaitMetrics — Support

GaitMetrics tracks your walking patterns using your iPhone's accelerometer and gyroscope. Whether you're recovering from an injury or monitoring your mobility, GaitMetrics provides evidence-based insights grounded in physical therapy and occupational therapy research.

Key Features

What GaitMetrics Measures

Exercise Tests (Pro)

GaitMetrics includes clinically-validated tests with interpretations:

• Timed Up & Go (TUG) — Mobility and balance assessment
• 5× Sit-to-Stand — Leg strength and power evaluation
• Single Leg Stance — Balance control for fall risk screening

Recovery Timeline (Pro)

Track your progress through injury-specific recovery phases:

• ACL reconstruction (40 weeks, 5 phases)
• Hip replacement (26 weeks, 4 phases)
• Knee replacement (16 weeks, 4 phases)
• Ankle fracture (12 weeks, 3 phases)
• Ankle sprain (6 weeks, 3 phases)
• General leg injury (12 weeks, 3 phases)

Evidence & References

GaitMetrics' reference ranges are based on peer-reviewed rehabilitation research:

• NIH Toolbox 4-Meter Walk Test — Normative gait speed data
• CADENCE-Adults Study — Walking cadence norms across age groups
• CDC STEADI Program — Fall risk assessment and prevention
• PMC8622042 — Smartphone-based gait analysis validation

How to Use

1. Start a session — Keep your phone in your front pocket or hold steady
2. Walk naturally — At least 20 steps for accurate analysis
3. Review results — See your metrics and insights immediately
4. Track progress — Monitor trends over time (Pro: with recovery milestones)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is GaitMetrics a medical device?

No. GaitMetrics is designed for general wellness and fitness tracking only. It is not FDA-approved as a medical device and does not diagnose, treat, or prevent any condition. Always consult your physician or physical therapist for medical concerns.

Why does the app need motion sensor access?

GaitMetrics uses your iPhone's accelerometer and gyroscope to detect steps and measure movement patterns. This data is processed locally on your phone—nothing is sent to us.

Can I use GaitMetrics on an iPad or iPod touch?

GaitMetrics is designed for iPhone only and requires motion sensors available in iPhone models.

What's the difference between free and Pro?

The free tier provides basic step counting, cadence, and sensor charts. Pro adds evidence-based health ratings (traffic lights), physical therapy exercise tests, injury-specific recovery timelines, and detailed plain-language insights.

How accurate are the estimates?

GaitMetrics estimates gait metrics based on smartphone sensor data and published normative research. Accuracy depends on phone placement, walking style, and individual factors. Results are estimates, not clinical measurements.

Why does the app ask for my height?

Height is used to estimate stride length and calculate walking speed. The formula (height × 0.78) is a validated anthropometric approximation used in gait research.

Can I export my data?

Session data is stored locally on your device. You can view sessions anytime within the app. Data is not sent to external servers.

What if I feel pain during a session?

Stop walking immediately and seek medical attention. GaitMetrics is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation.