Biomechanical assessment – finding the cause of foot pain

Are you unable to put your heel down first thing in the morning when you get out of bed or after a period of rest? Is doing daily activities such as going for walk or run causing your feet to hurt? Are you struggling to find comfortable shoes to wear?

Having painful feet, whether its heel pain, ankle pain or joint pain, can have a huge impact on daily activities. If this pain goes on for more than a few days, then it's something you should get checked out.

As a podiatrist, I understand that your feet are mechanical marvels with a complex structure of 26 bones and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments in each foot all working in harmony to keep you balanced every day. If you are suffering from foot pain, it not only shows on your face, but may also alter the way you walk.

There can be many reasons for getting pain in the heel, arch or ankle and so diagnosis is key. For example, if you're experiencing recurring pain in your feet, ankles, knees, or even your lower back, a biomechanical assessment can identify the underlying cause. I use a 3D Gait Analysis scan to help me diagnose foot pain issues and assist with customising orthotics (insoles), which can be worn in many types of footwear. Based on the data collected, the software integrates insoles that can be adapted to your specific needs.

Other treatments that may be incorporated into your assessment are padding and strapping of your feet, footwear advice and stretches.