Common Biomechanical Problems

COMMON BIOMECHANICAL PROBLEMS

BIOMECHANICS


Biomechanics is the science of how we move.

A Biomechanical examination will look at how the feet and lower limbs function.


We can look at your gait and the structure, function and positioning of your feet and lower limbs.


The structure of your feet and the way you walk can lead to various biomechanically related foot problems.

Common biomechanical problems occur where the structure and/or posture of the feet is not ideal in gait (walking).



Biomechanical problems are often related to the arch height of the feet. The height of the arch of the foot can affect the way the foot functions. There are three main foot types based on arch height. These are a low, medium or high arched foot.

A foot with a low arch (over pronation) can cause the individual to tend to walk on the inner border of the feet and the feet will roll inward. This can cause problems such as Bunions, clawed toes, osteoarthritis, corns, calluses, heel pain, “plantar fasciitis”, etc.


A medium arched foot is thought to be ideal for foot function.


A high arched foot (over supination) can cause the individual to walk more on the outer border of the feet. This type of foot places increased pressure on the forefoot and heel. It can lead to problems within the foot such as ankle sprains, clawed toes, osteoarthritis, corns, calluses, forefoot pain, heel pain, “plantar fasciitis”, etc.

The posture of the foot can affect the joints above it such as the ankle, knees, hips and lower back.

 

Problems with the back, hips, knees and ankles can also affect the function and posture of the feet.

 

Specialist orthotics, insoles and exercises can be used to improve foot posture and help alleviate symptoms.

ORTHOTICS AND INSOLES


Specialist orthotics and insoles can be prescribed by the podiatrist to improve foot function and posture when walking. These can be either “off the shelf” or custom made

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