1. Assessment of your feet

A biomechanical assessment is used to gather information that makes up  your individual design criteria of the orthotic prescription.  From this presciption, the orthotics will be designed using  a CAD, (computer aided design) program.  The assessment is roughly 50 – 60 minutes long.  The patients are requested to bring shorts for the biomechanical assessment in order for the podiatrist to have a clear view of their legs and feet.

The biomechanical analysis utilises the most up to date diagnostic equipment available.  In the biomechanical analysis we aim to collect as much information as possible on how you walk and run and how your feet and legs function.

We also assess your primary or genetic structure  for the ‘misalignments’ we all have, such as knock-knees, bowed lower legs, etc.  We assess these features , both non-weight bearing and weight bearing,  using evidence based examination techinques that have been show to be predictive  in function.  We are interested in analysing  how these relationships are compensated  and how that impacts on the functioning of the feet.

 

2. Video Gait Analysis and Plantar Pressure  Evaluation

Through this we gain an understanding of what is happening and when it happens.  With our plantar pressure mat we can see where you place the pressure on your feet, the amount of pressure you place and the timings of how you place that pressure.  This is why we have a plate which allows analysis of multiple steps, rather that one single step, resulting in an accurate diagnosis.

3. Imaging of your feet

 

A two dimensional scan of the foot is helpful in showing specific  features with the foot being in a weight bearing position.  These features may include:

  • an ulceration,
  • boney promenance,
  • callus and corn formation

We can also use it to note the position where a correction needs to be placed on the orthotic to aid function or to off load a high pressure area.

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A three dimensional scan of the foot.

In the past the actual dimensions of  your foot, ( the shape or profile of the underneath of your foot including the arch), was captured using a plaster cast. We use new technology that captures your foot digitially in a method which the software can generate a 3d model.  The advance of this, apart from the lack of mess, is that we can see the model of your foot immediately and capture another if the foot model is not exactly how we want it.  Once we are happy with the model, it is imported into the CAD software as an important component to the orthotic design process.

  WARNING : This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional podiatric advice. Treatment will vary between individuals depending upon your diagnosis and presenting complaint. An accurate diagnosis can only be made following personal consultation with a Podiatrist.