Biomechanics
A biomechanical assessment involves an examination of the lower limbs, looking at their structure, alignment, strengths and weaknesses.
The foot is a complex structure of 28 different bones, 214 ligaments and 38 muscles, bearing our body weight as we walk every day.
The examination is not focused simply upon the foot but includes the pelvis, legs and knees, assessing the relationship between them. It is important to examine the lower limbs as a whole because they are closely connected and pain in one area can be due to a weakness or structural problem in another area.
A biomechanical assessment is very beneficial if you are experiencing pain in your feet or lower limbs but no cause has been established. A biomechanical assessment is the starting point for understanding the cause of your problem, what treatment is needed or whether further investigations are necessary.
What are the benefits of a biomechanical assessment?
A biomechanical assessment is very beneficial if you are experiencing pain in your feet or lower limbs but no cause has been established. A biomechanical assessment is the starting point for understanding the cause of your problem, what treatment is needed or whether further investigations are necessary.
What happens during a biomechanical assessment?
Our treatments start by taking a full medical history. Then the Chiropodist / foot specialist will examine the joint range of motion of your hips, knees and feet. Your muscle strength and weakness will also be assessed and the expert will look for any signs of leg length discrepancy. We examine the structure of your feet, looking at the relationship between the forefoot and rearfoot.
While you stand in a relaxed stance, the alignment of your feet and relationship to the lower legs will be assessed.
Our team can video gait analysis as part of a biomechanical assessment if needed. You will be asked to walk and run in order to complete the examination.
The gait analysis enables the Chiropodist to see whether there is any rotation in the pelvis during running, any alignment problems and excessive foot movement.
How long does a biomechanical assessment take?
It takes one appointment to complete all the tests necessary, discuss the results and advise on the recommended treatment.
What sort of treatment will I need after a biomechanical assessment?
There are many different types of recommended treatments following a biomechanical assessment, depending upon your results. For people who have good structural foot mechanics, the specialist will advise on the best footwear in order to reduce the risk of foot problems. Simple changes such as wearing trainers designed for your gait or wearing insoles can be very effective.
If the Chiropodist believes that your mechanics could be contributing to your injury or pain, insoles or custom made orthotics will be prescribed. Referrals may also be made to an osteopath, sports doctor and rheumatologist. Patient may also be referred for imaging such as X-rays.
