Biomechanics Podiatrist
Charlotte Simpson BSc (Hons), BA (Hons), M Ch S,
Biomechanics Podiatrist
HPC registered CH 28326
Charlotte qualified with a 1st class Honors Podiatry Degree from the University of Northampton. Her special interest is in biomechanics of the foot and insoles / orthoses that can be used to correct foot biomechanics.
Biomechanics Podiatry appointments are available at the Practice on Saturdays.
Biomechanics – What is it?
Many aches or pains in the feet, legs or lower back can be attributable to your “biomechanics”. But what does this mean?
Rarely do we find that the left and right sides of our body are symmetrical. This is equally so for our feet and legs. Additionally, many of us have mild deformities in our feet and legs, such as bowed legs or fallen arches..
This means that when we stand, walk or run our body has to compensate for these anomalies. It is these compensations that put structures such as muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons under undue strain as they begin functioning in an abnormal or compromised manner. Over time the structures can become inflamed or injured.
A Biomechanics assessment is an investigation into your lower limb function identifying what happens in your legs and feet when you walk and stand . Once the problems have been identified a tailor made treatment plan can be created to improve your symptoms. This may involve one or more of the following:
Exercises to stretch or strengthen muscles
Insoles / Orthoses – specially made devices for you to wear inside your shoe to control, realign or cushion the abnormalities.
Footwear advice
What is involved?
A biomechanics assessment takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Please bring trainers and the shoes you wear regularly with you. Shorts should also be brought along to change in to so that your knees can be seen in order to help the examination. Your legs and feet will be examined laying down and standing up. Also watching you walk and jog will be undertaken to analysis your gait.