Biomechanical Assessment Podiatrist Zimbabwe
Biomechanical issues, such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, overpronation, supination, or gait abnormalities, can cause pain and discomfort in the feet, knees, hips, and lower back. Flat feet can lead to excessive strain on tendons and ligaments, while high-arched feet may cause instability and pain. Bunions, bony lumps that form on the side of the big toe, often result from poor foot mechanics.
Over pronation, the excessive inward rolling of the foot, and supination, the outward rolling of the foot, can both lead to uneven wear on shoes and discomfort during movement. Heel spurs, calcium deposits on the underside of the heel, often accompany plantar fasciitis, causing sharp pain during walking. Metatarsalgia refers to pain in the ball of the foot due to excessive pressure, while leg limb discrepancies can lead to compensatory pain throughout the body. Bespoke orthotics, specially designed insoles or shoe inserts, can help redistribute pressure and correct alignment.
Our Zimbabwe clinic offers detailed biomechanical assessments to identify the root cause of your discomfort and create a customized treatment plan, including orthotics and exercise programs. With our expertise, you can experience improved mobility and reduced pain.
Biomechanical Assessment Podiatrist London
In London, our clinic specializes in biomechanical assessments for individuals experiencing pain or discomfort due to foot alignment issues. Our expert podiatrists use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your biomechanics and provide tailored solutions, including treatments for conditions such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, heel spurs, overpronation, supination, metatarsalgia, and leg limb discrepancies. Bespoke orthotics are also available to enhance your foot function and overall comfort. Trust DG Podiatrist for comprehensive biomechanical care.
Orthotics for Lower Limb Structural Concerns
Flat Feet (Pes Planus)
Who is Likely to Develop Flat Feet?
Flat feet are common in children, but for some individuals, the condition persists into adulthood. It may also develop later in life due to obesity, pregnancy, or aging. People with a family history of flat feet are more prone to this condition.
Why It Develops?
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet do not develop properly or collapse due to weakened ligaments or tendons. Prolonged stress on the feet, injuries, or medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can also contribute.
How the Assessment is Done?
A podiatrist will perform a thorough biomechanical assessment, including observing your gait, examining your foot structure, and possibly using imaging studies like X-rays to evaluate the alignment and integrity of your arches. They may also assess the wear pattern of your shoes.
High-Arched Feet (Pes Cavus)
Who is Likely to Develop High-Arched Feet?
High arches often run in families and may be associated with neurological or muscular conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Athletes or individuals with significant physical activity may also develop this condition due to repetitive stress.
Why It Develops?
The condition results from an exaggerated arch, leading to instability and uneven weight distribution. This can cause excessive pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, leading to pain and injuries.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists assess high arches by examining the feet while standing, walking, or sitting. Imaging tools, such as X-rays or pressure mapping, may be used to analyze foot mechanics and identify areas of excessive pressure.
Overpronation
Who is Likely to Develop Overpronation?
Overpronation is common in individuals with flat feet or weak arches. It is more likely to occur in runners, people who are overweight, and those who wear unsupportive footwear.
Why It Develops?
Over pronation happens when the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running, leading to misalignment and uneven pressure on the feet.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists use gait analysis to observe foot movement and assess pronation patterns. A physical examination and footwear assessment are also conducted to determine the impact of over pronation on foot health.
Supination (Under pronation)
Who is Likely to Develop Supination?
Supination often affects people with high arches. It is also common among runners and those with a history of ankle instability or injuries.
Why It Develops?
Supination occurs when the foot rolls outward excessively during movement, causing uneven pressure on the outer edge of the foot and reducing shock absorption.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists evaluate supination by analyzing gait, checking foot alignment, and examining the wear patterns on shoes. Imaging tools may be used to identify structural abnormalities.
Bunions (Hallux Valgus)
Who is Likely to Develop Bunions?
Bunions are more common in women, likely due to wearing tight or high-heeled shoes. They also have a genetic component and are associated with conditions like arthritis.
Why It Develops?
Bunions form when the big toe joint is misaligned, often due to biomechanical issues, repetitive stress, or footwear that compresses the toes.
How the Assessment is Done?
A podiatrist examines the foot for visible deformities and assesses range of motion and pain levels. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the severity and underlying structural changes.
Heel Spurs
Who is Likely to Develop Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are common in individuals with plantar fasciitis, obesity, or those who engage in repetitive impact activities like running or jumping.
Why It Develops?
They result from calcium deposits building up on the underside of the heel, often due to strain on foot ligaments and muscles.
How the Assessment is Done?
Heel spurs are diagnosed through physical examination and confirmed with X-rays to visualize the bony protrusions.
Shin Splints
Who is Likely to Develop Shin Splints?
Shin splints are common in runners, dancers, and athletes who participate in high-impact activities. Improper training techniques and poor footwear are contributing factors.
Why It Develops?
The condition results from inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the shinbone, often caused by repetitive stress.
How the Assessment is Done?
A podiatrist will assess your medical history, conduct a physical examination, and evaluate your training habits and footwear. Imaging studies may be used to rule out stress fractures.
Metatarsalgia
Who is Likely to Develop Metatarsalgia?
This condition affects runners, athletes, and individuals who frequently wear high-heeled or ill-fitting shoes. It is also more common in people with high arches or other foot deformities.
Why It Develops?
Metatarsalgia occurs due to excessive pressure on the ball of the foot, often resulting from biomechanical abnormalities or improper footwear.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists perform a physical examination and assess your activity level and footwear. Gait analysis and imaging may also be conducted to pinpoint pressure areas.
Leg Length Discrepancy
Who is Likely to Develop Leg Length Discrepancy?
This condition can be congenital or result from injuries, surgeries, or conditions like scoliosis.
Why It Develops?
Unequal leg lengths cause an imbalance in gait, leading to compensatory pain in the feet, hips, or back.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists measure leg length and analyze your gait. Imaging studies may also be used to determine the severity and underlying cause of the discrepancy.
Achilles Tendonitis
Who is Likely to Develop Achilles Tendonitis?
Athletes, particularly runners and individuals who engage in repetitive activities, are at higher risk. The condition is also more common in middle-aged adults.
Why It Develops?
Achilles tendonitis is caused by overuse or strain on the Achilles tendon, often due to improper footwear, lack of stretching, or sudden increases in physical activity.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists examine the tendon for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. Gait analysis and imaging studies may be conducted to determine the extent of the damage.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
Who is Likely to Develop Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome?
This condition is common in runners, cyclists, and individuals who perform repetitive knee-bending activities. Weak thigh muscles or biomechanical issues can increase the risk.
Why It Develops?
Runner’s knee occurs due to misalignment of the kneecap, causing irritation of the cartilage beneath it.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists evaluate knee alignment, gait, and muscle strength. Imaging studies may also be used to rule out other knee conditions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Who is Likely to Develop Morton’s Neuroma?
This condition is common in women who wear high heels or tight shoes. Athletes who engage in activities that place pressure on the ball of the foot are also at risk.
Why It Develops?
Morton’s neuroma occurs when the tissue around a nerve leading to the toes thickens, often due to irritation or pressure.
How the Assessment is Done?
A podiatrist will evaluate your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and use diagnostic imaging if necessary to confirm the presence of the neuroma.
Arthritis (Rheumatoid or Osteoarthritis)
Who is Likely to Develop Arthritis?
Arthritis can affect individuals of all ages but is more common in older adults or those with a family history of the condition. Previous injuries or excessive joint stress also increase the risk.
Why It Develops?
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, while osteoarthritis results from wear and tear of joint cartilage over time.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists assess joint pain, swelling, and mobility. Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs may be used to evaluate joint damage and inflammation.
Diabetic Foot Problems
Who is Likely to Develop Diabetic Foot Problems?
People with diabetes are at high risk due to poor circulation, neuropathy, and a reduced ability to heal.
Why It Develops?
High blood sugar levels damage nerves and blood vessels, leading to reduced sensation and slower healing, which increases the risk of ulcers and infections.
How the Assessment is Done?
Podiatrists perform a thorough examination of the feet, checking for sensation, circulation, and any signs of ulcers or infections. Regular monitoring and specialized tests may also be conducted.
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