Do I Need a Biomechanical Assessment?
Are you experiencing discomfort or pain in your feet, ankles, or lower limbs? Are you curious about the factors influencing your gait or movement patterns? If so, you may benefit from a biomechanical assessment.
What is a Biomechanical Assessment?
A biomechanical assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of the structure, alignment, and function of your feet and lower limbs. It involves a series of tests and analyses to assess your gait (the way you walk), foot mechanics, joint range of motion, muscle strength, and overall lower limb function.
Do You Need a Biomechanical Assessment?
Here are some signs that indicate you may benefit from a biomechanical assessment:
Persistent Foot or Lower Limb Pain: If you’re experiencing chronic pain in your feet, ankles, knees, hips, or lower back, it could be a result of poor biomechanics. A biomechanical assessment can help identify the underlying causes of your pain and provide targeted treatment options.
Recurring Injuries: Have you suffered from frequent injuries such as sprained ankles, stress fractures, or tendonitis? These injuries may be indicative of biomechanical issues or improper movement patterns. A biomechanical assessment can pinpoint any contributing factors and help prevent future injuries.
Foot Deformities: Conditions like flat feet (pes planus), high arches (pes cavus), bunions, or hammertoes can affect your biomechanics and lead to pain or discomfort. A biomechanical assessment can evaluate the impact of these deformities on your gait and recommend appropriate interventions.
Sports Performance: Athletes often seek biomechanical assessments to optimise their performance and reduce the risk of injuries. Whether you’re a runner, dancer, or participate in any other sport, understanding your biomechanics can enhance your athletic performance and prevent overuse injuries.
Orthotic Prescription: If you’re considering custom orthotics to address foot or lower limb issues, a biomechanical assessment is typically the first step. By analysing your gait and foot mechanics, your podiatrist can prescribe orthotics tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal support and alignment.
What to Expect During a Biomechanical Assessment
During your biomechanical assessment, your podiatrist will:
Conduct a thorough medical history review to understand your symptoms, past injuries, and lifestyle factors.
Perform a physical examination of your feet, ankles, and lower limbs, assessing for any structural abnormalities or range of motion limitations.
Analyse your gait using video gait analysis or other advanced technologies to assess your walking and running patterns.
Assess muscle strength, flexibility, and balance to identify any weaknesses or imbalances contributing to your symptoms.
Discuss findings and develop a personalised treatment plan, which may include orthotic therapy, footwear recommendations, exercises, or other interventions tailored to your needs.