A comprehensive examination of the musculosketetal system. This is done through assessing joint ranges of motion/stiffnesses, gait analysis, assess strength and identify weaknesses.
A biomechanics assessment investigates how the lower limbs (legs and feet) function in relation to the rest of the body when the patient is in a state of movement (walking/running).
The foot is the only part of the human body that is wholly unique to us as humans and allows us to walk upright. As humans evolved we walked across varied and undulating terrain. This saw the human foot develop a complex set of joints and muscles. Today, typically the human foot walks across hard, flat surfaces. This requires repetitive, low-grade movement.
A moderately active person takes on average 7,500 steps per day. If a body has anomalies, it attempts to compensate for them during the gait cycle (walking or running). These compensations put additional pressure on the muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons. Over time, this can lead to inflammation or injury.
Through the process of gait analysis, Firefly's Podiatrists analyse forces of movement in the body, identifying any discrepancies that may be the cause of injury or that can eventually lead to discomfort, pain or injury.
Modifying these discrepancies by the use of foot orthotic therapy can lead to more efficient movement. This, in turn, can increase athletic performance, reduce pain or the occurrence of injury.
A musculoskeletal assessment can identify the underlying causes of lower limb injury including; heel pain, knee pain and back pain.
