Ask the Podiatrist…………What is Biomechanics?

Biomechanics is the science of how we move, how our muscles, bones and joints combine to provide human motion.   Understandably this is a complex process and as such is fraught with the potential to go wrong.

In order to avoid injuries, it is important to be able to move efficiently.  The joints must be capable of providing enough movement and the muscles capable of producing sufficient force to generate an efficient gait cycle (way of moving on foot).  If the joints become stiff (often caused by muscle tightness) this will limit the range of motion.  Likewise, if the muscles are weak, the body will find a way to compensate and this is when biomechanical abnormalities begin to show.

Podiatric Biomechanics is a specialist area which diagnoses how problems with movement in the feet can adversely affect our motion.   This knowledge is useful to treat problems which predominantly involve the legs, knees and feet.  Conditions regularly treated include joint pains, recurrent sprains, sports injuries, knee pain, recurrent corns / callus, flat feet, bunions, gait (walking) problems, and persistent aches and pains.

A full lower limb biomechanical assessment will involve a taking the medical history, full history of the presenting problems, and then examination of the feet and lower limbs to assess if there is any abnormality which could be related to the symptoms described. Following this assessment a treatment plan will be devised in agreement with the patient.   Treatments vary, but often involve stretches and/or exercises, footwear advice and use of an in-shoe device to control the foot position (orthotics).

At The Foot Room we have a Podiatric Biomechanics Specialist who is experienced in assessing, diagnosing and treating conditions that arise from biomechanical problems.

Don’t wait in pain…book an appointment,

call The Foot Room on:

01772 378812