Chiropodists and Podiatrists based in Newton Abbot, Devon

Orthotics

Biomechanics – Basic Principles

Podiatric Biomechanics means the application of mechanical principles to alleviating problems in the lower limb caused by misalignments of bones in the patient’s feet and legs. Put simply, 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 lower leg and to the ground during motion. If these angles and alignments are incorrect then soft tissue stresses will occur.

Off the Shelf Othotics

Not all conditions require bespoke or custom made devices. Simple pre-made orthotics can be prescribed for a variety of mild biomechanical problems.

Custom Made Othotics

For more complex conditions (for example, where the problems are not the same in both feet) 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 and will have been fabricated exactly to match your feet and their problems.

Feet and legs prepared for a biomechanical examination

Follow the links below for more information on Treatments