Podiatrist and Clinical Specialist in Biomechanics
Biomechanics
(definition)
'is the human version of mechanics or the study of the anatomical principles of movement.'
'Biomechanics is concerned with preservation, restoration and development of the function of the foot and its associated structure.' (ref. feetforlife)
The way we stand, walk and run all has an impact on our lower limb and foot health. If someone has poor foot posture or mechanics, this can lead to a host of problems involving the foot, leg, knee, hip and back.
Common foot probelms such as flat feet or the opposite high arches, can change the alignment of the lower limb. As we take some 10,000 or more steps a day it is easy to see how pain can arise.
A biomechanical assessment is where your walking (gait) pattern, posture, joint condition and alignment, muscle quality and power are all looked at. If a problem is found, then sometimes bepsoke orthoses if appropriate can be prescribed to improve the foot posture.
Sometimes more basic insoles, podiatry treatments, stretching exercises and footwear advice can be used.
There are times when further tests can be recommended to further investigate difficult problems, such as xrays or other scans.
