A member of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists

Biomechanics

Biomechanics is about the way your body moves, in particular for us, how the movements of your lower limb and foot affect the rest of you. It is important that your feet are in good working order; otherwise you will feel aches and pains in other areas of your body – such as your knees, hips and back, as well as in your feet. Pain and discomfort caused by these ‘biomechanical’ problems can be assessed and treated by a branch of chiropody known as podiatric biomechanics. A detailed assessment of any such structural imbalances or misalignment is carried out in order to determine how best to treat these and to relieve any associated pain or discomfort.

However, you don’t have to have a problem before you have an assessment. For example if you become aware of standing or walking in an unstable or flat footed way – it may be recommended to just have a check so any potential problems are caught early. Most often people are referred to the clinic via osteopaths and physios.

During your initial appointment, your symptoms will be discussed with you and a physical assessment will then be carried out. The assessment involves looking at the way you stand and walk, checking the joints and muscles, assessing your footwear and lifestyle. You should wear shorts for this appointment, or at least some loose fitting trousers. It would also be helpful if you brought along a variety of shoes you wear for different activities, such as trainers, work shoes, walking shoes and in particular the footwear that causes the pain (if it is specific). After the assessment has been carried out, a treatment plan will then be formulated.

Your treatment plan may involve orthotics (see under separate heading), strapping, exercises, and footwear advice. The biomechanical assessment will be approximately 60 minutes (this may be split into two 30 minute sessions).

If appropriate, referrals may be made to osteopaths, physios, G.Ps, or consultant surgeons or podiatric surgeons. The clinic also provides osteopathy.