A biomechanical assessment is the analysis of the body’s movements when you stand and walk. It looks closely at how the different joints, muscles and your general posture is positioned and functioning.

Any imbalances in the body can cause stress on both the muscles and joints and over time can result in injury and slower recovery times.

If you are suffering from pain then the clinician will find out the cause of the pain. Often pain will result from the foot or ankle which is then referred up the body into the knee, hip or lower back.

What happens during a biomechanical assessment?

The main objective of having a biomechanical assessment is to receive specialist advice on how your body functions in static, dynamic positions and review your footwear.

The static assessment will be conducted by the clinician analysing your body sitting and standing. At the same time, the clinician will take photographs of you standing from different angles. The dynamic assessment will be undertaken whilst you are moving. The clinician will then talk you through the findings and show you where your posture is out of line on the photographs and make recommendations with you. These recommendations could be:

1. Prescription Orthotic insoles
2. Change of footwear
3. Stretches
4. Combination of all of the above.

The assessment will involve the clinician examining your feet, legs, back and general posture. Therefore it is recommended that you bring a pair of shorts or loose-fitting clothes with you. It is important that you bring a selection of your footwear with you.

Why should I have a biomechanical assessment?

1. If you have discomfort or pain in one area of your body this can show up in another area.  For example, ankle or foot pain can cause the body to compensate for the pain/injury in other parts of the body.  This can put too much pressure and stress on the hip, knee or lower back causing it to be overused. If this continues long term it can end up with you suffering from a form of arthritis.
2. Consider this as a preventative medicine. It will save you time and money in the long run, and endless visits to the physio or surgery for pain relief.
3. The final reason is, it is easier to resolve any body issues when there is no pain or injury. So if you have a nagging injury, or want to achieve more mobility then a biomechanical assessment is the option.

Who should have a biomechanical assessment?

You should have an assessment if you are experiencing pain or a sports injury. However you do not have to have a specific sports injury, it may just be pain that is present when walking or doing a specific movement.

Or it may that you wish to improve posture or prevent/reduce the risk of injury and following referral from another health professional.

Find out more about biomechanical assessments or book an appointment at one of our foot care clinics in Beeston or Ilkeston.