Matt Hart

I believe that effective care begins with understanding how and why the body moves the way it does. My clinical approach is built around integrating high-precision, objective assessment tools, including Run 3D gait analysis, VALD strength testing, Footscan plantar-pressure analysis and comprehensive musculoskeletal evaluation into every appropriate care pathway. This data-led framework allows me to develop highly individualised management plans that address biomechanics, strength capacity, training load, footwear and functional movement strategies in a truly integrated way. Whether supporting return from injury, managing persistent or recurrent issues, or optimising performance, my focus is on delivering evidence-based solutions aligned with each individual’s goals.

I work with active individuals, runners and athletes of all levels, with a particular emphasis on complex and recurrent lower-limb injuries, return-to-run decision making and long-term performance development. My clinical reasoning centres on how biomechanics, strength and load interact to influence pain, injury risk and movement efficiency. By combining advanced gait, strength and pressure analysis with clinical expertise, I am skilled at identifying the mechanical and capacity-related contributors to symptoms that persist or recur despite previous treatment. Clear communication and patient education are central to my practice, ensuring individuals understand both the underlying causes of their symptoms and the rationale behind each element of their management plan.

Alongside my clinical work, I am an associate lecturer in clinical biomechanics and currently undertaking a Sports Science based PhD at Staffordshire University. My research, titled “The Biological Price of Technology: A Dynamic Systems Investigation with Single-Subject Analysis of how a Runner’s Strength and Plyometric Capacity Mediate Coordination, Control, and Metabolic Adaptation to Advanced Footwear Technology,” explores how modern running footwear interacts with individual strength, neuromuscular capacity and movement variability. This work reflects my wider interest in dynamic systems theory, responder versus non-responder behaviour and the individualised effects of technology on performance and injury risk, directly informing my clinical decision making and footwear guidance.

I also bring over 30 years of personal running experience, having competed across track, cross country and road running, representing North Devon AC and Bristol & West AC, with a half-marathon personal best of 1 hour 13 minutes. This lived experience provides first-hand insight into the realities of training load, performance pressure and injury management, allowing me to bridge the gap between objective data and real-world running demands. As a result, my assessments and recommendations are not only scientifically grounded, but practical, realistic and supportive of long-term progress and sustained performance.