Podiatry

Biomechanics & Gait Analysis


Biomechanics

The field of study which makes use of the laws of physics and engineering concepts to describe motion of body segments and the forces which act upon them during activity

Gait Analysis

The process of quantification and interpretation of human locomotion.

Put simply, by applying the principles of architecture and engineering to the human body, specialists can understand how forces travel through us as a result of the way we walk and run that can lead to problems. Once the reasons for a problem occurring it understood it is then possible to see how this can be improved or corrected.


To explain in more detail the concept of biomechanics it is worth considering that human foot is incredibly complex. It is the only part of us in contact with the ground and is required to fulfil two very differing and demanding roles. The foot is a ‘structure’ that has to support the weight of the entire body. It is also our ‘engine’, essential for locomotion and movement. Not only do the feet have to combine these two differing roles of support and mobility, they have to combine them simultaneously, repetitively, reliably, and for an awfully long time. Unlike most creatures on Earth, it's also worthwhile noting we only have two of them.

Podiatrists who specialise in biomechanics see the human body in the same way an architect sees a building. They apply the principles of physics and engineering to understand why people suffer from a wide range of problems in their feet, legs and back.

Seemingly small postural problems or mal-alignment over time can lead to a wide range of seemingly unrelated problems, such as corns, callus, blisters, painful nails, bursae, sprains, strains, bunions, claw toes, hammer toes, tendonitis, RSI, arthritis and eventually disability. Whilst many people may visit a podiatrist complaining of any of these common problems and gain relief, biomechanical podiatrists look at the reasons why these problems occur in the first place. They aim to correct problems at their source and so provide rapid relief and long-term solutions. By improving the efficiency of the way we move and walk our specialist can effectively treat problems, relieve pain, reduce injuries and help to avoid problems in the future.


When to seek help

When we have something that isn’t right we get ‘symptoms’. These are the body’s way of drawing our attention to something that is not healthy. If you ‘feel’ something isn’t right, it is almost certain that it isn’t. Generally, listening to our body is arguably the best way of determining when you should see someone. You do not have to wait until you have major problems in order to speak to someone. Biomechanics is as much about the prevention of problems as it is in the treatment of problems and if you feel you have a problem or a concern that you feel you'd like to talk about then you should talk to someone, and this is why we recommend anyone with a concern to make an appointment for a Short Assessment.


Short Assessment

Usually the first place to start is to see our specialist for a short assessment. This is a consultation lasting up to 30 minutes and allows our biomechanics podiatrist to examine you. You will have your problems explained and advised what can be done to help. Any costs will be clearly explained and you will also be given advice on how much better/what improvements your specialist feels are realistically achievable. Sometimes people may improve more, or less, than the podiatrist thought was likely. Once you know what the possibilities are to help your problem, any costs explained, and have an idea of what improvements are likely, you will be able to decide on the best course of action to help your condition.

As your feet, legs and posture may need to be examined you should be prepared to dress accordingly. A checklist includes:

  • Shorts, or trousers that can be rolled up above the knee (eg tracksuit bottoms).
  • Skirts are not suitable. If you wish, you may change at the practice.
  • A selection of shoes, including any which help your problem, or make it worse, plus those which are worn often, or worn for sports.
  • A list of any medical problems and medication.
  • Anything you have been given for this problem before, whether it helped or not.


Full Biomechanical Assessment

Sometimes a Full Biomechanical Assessment (BMA) is required to assess the underlying problem in more detail and this can last an hour. Once the ‘fault’ is uncovered the podiatrist can decide how to correct or improve your problems. The foot is never treated in isolation, since all parts of the skeleton are connected. Sometimes the examination may include the knees, hips or spine, and the podiatrist may test joints and ligaments, check muscle power and reflexes, measure movements and angles of bones and the ranges of motion. They may wish to examine the way you stand and walk to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best possible treatment. Dress code is the same as for a short assessment.


Treatment

Treatments typically include a combination of advice, exercises, stretches, and ‘orthotics’. An orthotic is a device rather like an insole that is worn inside the shoe that controls and influences foot motion. In doing so, orthotics can influence other parts of the skeleton and can improve posture and balance. Orthotics can be made for specific purposes, such as sports, or for general wear, or a combination of both. They can be made for occupational footwear or for leisure, and can even be made for shoes with heels.

You can discuss your requirements, choices and preferences to get the best possible orthotics for your specific problems or needs.

Although orthotics are primarily concerned with providing relief from symptoms, by balancing your body’s alignment, improving posture and increasing the efficiency of movement, orthotics may also help to avoid problems encountered through ‘wear and tear’ such as arthritis, or slow the development of problems related to abnormal mechanics, such as hammer toes, bunions and flat feet.


Please note that the short assessment is recommended for anyone who has not experienced problems before. If you have already had treatment elsewhere, or have particular requirements please Email Us with your enquiry and we will forward your request to our specialist.