Biomechanics
Biomechanics refers to the physics of body movement. Podiatrists who deal with biomechanical problems look at why symptoms, problems or injuries occur as a result of the way we naturally walk and move, and how this can be improved to help people resolve problems, or improve performance in sport.
By applying the same principles of physics that apply in architecture and engineering to the human body the reasons behind many common problems that affect us can be identified, and once identified it is possible to work out ways of improving the efficiency of our movement and so improve the way we walk or run. They can help our body to work better.
If you think of your feet and legs as the moving parts in the engine of a car: when you drive a new car you expect that things should fit together well. The engine is said to be "tuned". However, for every mile you drive, those forces excerted by the engine to move the car are also acting back upon the engine, and, slowly, parts of the engine are moving out of sych. As some parts of the engine begin to move only slightly out of alingment we may initially begin to notice a small vibration. The vibration can lead to friction or heat, which can have a knock on effect elsewhere and can eventually lead to a seizure.
The human skeleton is absolutely no different. As we walk, mile after mile, the forces we put into the ground to move us around are also acting back upon us. Slowly, the bones that make up our skeleton, and in particular those in our feet, are moving out of sync. When the bones of our feet and legs become slightly out of alingment we begin to notice problems. Hard skin may appear on the foot or we keep getting blisters. We may notice aches and discomfort in the balls of the feet, the arches, or the heel. We may notice ankle pain or stiffness, or problems with the knees. Muscles or ligaments may be put under increasing pressure and we may suffer from sprains or strains. Over time the toes may begin to curl and claw, or we may notice the beginnings of a bunion. Eventually we may develop arthritis. All of these problems (and others) have one thing in common - they occur because of small forces acting upon you in an abnormal way.
This may sound depressing, but many people do not need treatment, and plenty of help is available. Biomechanics is exactly the same as getting your engine re-tuned. The use of orthotics (specialised insoled) can improve alingment of the bones, ease stresses and allow the forces involved in walking and running to travel through the foot without causing problems. Biomechanics is also only one possible treatment option. There may be plenty more options available to help your problem. It is simply our job to explain what is happening in your body. You will decide if you feel this is something that interests you.
In all instances we recommend that you ask to see our biomechanics specialist for a "short assessment". This is a half hour appointment and is a way of seeing the specialist to find out a diagnosis and understad what can be done to help, the costs involved and, importantly, the likely success or benefit of treatment. Once you have a full understanding of what is involved you will be able to decide whether to proceed with treatment.
You can download this leaflet which we issue to patients
Open 'Biomechanics_06' in a new window before making an appointment.
Rest assured, we always offer completely impartial advice on all our treatments which allows you to make better choices concerning your health.
8 Leigham Hall Parade, Streatham High Road, London SW16 1DR
Tel: 020 8769 7409
Email Us