Gait as a Window to Cardiovascular Health: The Overlooked Vital Sign

The following is a guest article by Alaina Victoria, PT, DPT, Senior Marketing Manager at OneStep

When we think about cardiovascular health, we often focus on traditional metrics: blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and heart rate. But what if a person’s walking pattern—their gait—could provide key insights into their heart health? Emerging research suggests that gait analysis is becoming an invaluable tool for assessing cardiovascular risk and overall well-being.

The Link Between Gait and Heart Health

Gait is more than just movement—it is a complex interplay of neuromuscular coordination, musculoskeletal function, and cardiovascular efficiency. Studies have found strong correlations between gait speed, variability, and symmetry with cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and even stroke risk.

A slower gait speed, for example, has been linked to an increased likelihood of cardiovascular disease and higher mortality rates. Research indicates that slower gait speed is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and higher mortality rates. A systematic review and meta-analysis found that each 0.1 m/s decrease in gait speed corresponded to a 12% higher risk of mortality and an 8% increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Additionally, increased gait variability—unpredictable changes in step timing and length—has been linked to vascular impairments. Studies have shown that patients with peripheral artery disease exhibit greater variability in knee and hip movements compared to healthy individuals, suggesting that monitoring these subtle changes could serve as an early warning system for cardiovascular dysfunction.

How Technology is Changing Gait Analysis

Historically, gait analysis was conducted in specialized labs with high-tech motion capture systems, limiting its accessibility. However, advances in digital health technology, like OneStep, have made it possible to assess gait using just a smartphone. With AI-powered motion intelligence, clinicians can now capture real-world movement data remotely, allowing for continuous monitoring outside the clinic.

This shift is particularly beneficial for individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease, as gait changes can indicate significant risk before traditional symptoms arise. By integrating gait analysis into routine cardiovascular assessments, providers can gain an additional layer of insight into patient health and risk status—catching minor changes that may have otherwise been missed.

Gait as a Preventative Screening Tool and Health Indicator

One of the most promising aspects of gait analysis is its potential to support proactive healthcare strategies. Identifying gait abnormalities early can lead to lifestyle adjustments, rehabilitation programs, or medical interventions that improve cardiovascular outcomes.

Additionally, patients recovering from cardiac surgery or cardiovascular events often struggle with mobility and endurance impairments. Continuous gait monitoring can help track their recovery progress and provide objective data to guide rehabilitation plans. Furthermore, gait assessments in primary care settings can help flag high-risk patients before a major cardiovascular event, decline, or adverse event related to new medication occurs, offering an opportunity for early intervention.

The Future of Gait Analysis in Cardiovascular Care

The integration of gait analysis into cardiovascular health monitoring is still in its early stages, but the potential is vast. With AI-driven gait assessment tools now accessible via smartphones, the ability to track movement patterns over time and a patient’s real-world environment will become an essential component of digital health strategies. By leveraging this data, healthcare providers can better predict cardiovascular risks, optimize patient care, and ultimately improve long-term outcomes.

As the industry continues to embrace technology-driven approaches, gait should no longer be viewed as just a measure of mobility. Instead, it should be recognized as a critical biomarker—a reflection of overall cardiovascular function and a key indicator of future health risks.

About Alaina Victoria

Alaina Victoria, PT, DPT, is the Senior Marketing Manager for OneStep, and a doctor of Physical Therapy with a passion for digital health technology. Her prior experience includes working within the rehabilitation and orthopedic settings as both a permanent and travel therapist. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) including the APTA Academy of Geriatrics Physical Therapy, APTA Frontiers in Rehabilitation, Science and Technology Council, and APTA Health Promotion and Wellness Council.