A biomechanical assessment is a detailed evaluation of how your body moves, with a particular focus on your feet, legs, and posture. Because your feet are the foundation of your body, even small abnormalities in the way they function can affect how forces travel through your ankles, knees, hips, and spine.

During a biomechanical assessment, our podiatrists look at:

• How your feet move and function

• Your walking and/or running pattern (gait analysis)

• Joint range of motion

• Muscle strength and flexibility

• Alignment of your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and pelvis

• Your posture, both standing and moving

This assessment helps identify imbalances, weaknesses, or movement patterns that may be contributing to pain, injury, or reduced performance.

Why Would Someone Need a Biomechanical Assessment?

A biomechanical assessment isn’t just for athletes—it’s helpful for people of all ages and activity levels. You may benefit from one if you experience:

1. Ongoing or Recurring Pain

Pain that keeps coming back is often a sign that the underlying cause hasn’t been addressed. Biomechanical issues can contribute to:

• Heel pain or plantar fasciitis

• Achilles tendon pain

• Shin splints

• Knee pain

• Hip or lower back discomfort

Identifying faulty movement patterns allows treatment to target the root cause rather than just the symptoms.

2. Sports or Running Injuries

If you run, play sport, or exercise regularly, repetitive movement can amplify small biomechanical problems. A biomechanical assessment can help with:

• Injury prevention

• Improving performance

• Reducing strain on joints and muscles

• Safe return to activity after injury

Many overuse injuries are linked to how the foot functions during movement.

3. Foot and Postural Problems

Issues such as flat feet, high arches, or uneven leg loading can affect posture and balance. Over time, these may lead to pain or fatigue. A biomechanical assessment helps determine how these structural differences are influencing your movement.

4. Considering Orthotics

Custom orthotics are often prescribed based on the findings of a biomechanical assessment. The assessment ensures orthotics are tailored specifically to your foot function and movement needs, rather than being generic inserts.

What Happens During the Assessment?

A typical biomechanical assessment includes:

• A discussion about your symptoms, lifestyle, and activity levels

• Physical examination of your feet and lower limbs

• Observation of how you walk or run

• Assessment of footwear and wear patterns

The appointment is non-invasive and designed to give a comprehensive picture of how your body moves.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Once the assessment is complete, your podiatrist will explain the findings in clear, simple terms and discuss a personalised treatment plan. This may include:

• Custom orthotics

• Footwear advice

• Strengthening or stretching exercises

• Load management or activity modification

• Referral for further imaging if required

Why Biomechanics Matter

Understanding biomechanics allows podiatrists to treat the cause of many musculoskeletal problems, not just the pain itself. Whether you’re dealing with chronic discomfort, recovering from injury, or looking to move more efficiently, a biomechanical assessment can be a key step toward long-term improvement.

If you’re unsure whether a biomechanical assessment is right for you speak to our front desk team who can advise you further.

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