BIOMECHANICS - THE PRINCIPLES

• Biomechanics means the application of mechanical principles to alleviating problems in the lower limb caused by misalignments of bones in the patients feet and legs.  Simply put, if the bones are "out of line" problems can be caused higher up in the knees and lower back, as well as within the foot itself.

 

• The efficiency with which the foot functions when walking (or running) depends on the way in which bones and joints move in relation to one another.  Efficient pain-free function also depends on the angle the foot makes to the leg and to the ground during motion.  If these angles and alignments are incorrect then soft tissue stresses will occur.

 

• Common mechanical problems are:-
• Aching and over tired feet
• Ankle sprains and weakness
• Over pronation (collapsing of the long arch)
• Overuse injuries such as Shin Splints
• Bunions
• Corns and Callouses
• Painful Nails
• Heel Pain

• In addition, because our feet take the strain of our daily activities, every step impacts directly upwards through the body.  Misalignments in the lower limb and the extra movements the body makes to compensate for them can cause stress and pain in the following areas.
• Feet
• Knees
• Hips
• Lower Back

 ORTHOTIC THERAPY

• If appropriate your practitioner will carry out a biomechanical examination which involes taking a series of measurements of the feet and legs, watching the patient walking and checking of joint movements.

 

• Once diagnosis is reached your podiatrist will discuss options and courses of treatments with you.

 

• The most common treatment for biomechanical problems is a special shoe insert known as an Orthasis or Orthotic.  These correct walking patterns by making small alterations to the way we walk and thereby improve the foot's overall efficiency.

 

• Orthases may be "off the shelf devices" which are adjusted to fit your feet or custom made from plaster of paris cast's which your practitioner makes of your feet.
  

OFF THE SHELF ORTHOTICS

• Not all problems require bespoke or custom made devices. Simple pre-made orthoses can be ordered for a variety of mild biomechancial problems.

CUSTOM MADE ORTHOTICS

• For more complex problems custom made devices will be necessary.  These are made by taking casts of your feet and sending them to a laboratory with a detailed prescription.  The shoe inserts produced will last for many years of use and are tailor made to your feet and their particular problems.