Print This Post
Orthotics & Gait Analysis
The Sportsphysio injury clinic specialises in gait analysis and biomechanics. Skilled thorough assessment is essential when treating gait problems, with every aspect of biomechanics taken into account from the foot to the spine.
The Foot Problem
As we walk, the foot strikes the ground slightly on the outer side of the heel. Natural forces encourage the foot to roll inward slightly (pronate) before lifting off using the big toe as a lever. In effect, your foot acts like a spring.
In some feet, this leaning inward (pronation) of the midfoot and heel is excessive and causes strain to the joints and supporting ligaments of the foot. Painful symptoms in the foot, lower leg and knee may develop with some of the worst cases causing pain in the lower back and loss of core stability. The “spring” effect of the foot is lost.
To prevent this from happening, the heel should remain vertical, the medial arch supported and pressure distributed evenly through the forefoot.
Of course, there are people who place too much pressure on the outside of the foot (Supination). Although this is not as common, it can also cause foot pain and symptoms such as shin splints.
Many conditions such as heel pain, Metatarsalgia (pain under the toe joints) and Plantar Fasciitis are a sign that something may be wrong with the biomechanics of the foot.
The Solution
Sometimes the problem does not lie with the foot itself, so skillful analysis of your biomechanics, including foot, lower limb and back assessment is carried out.
Manipulation, adjustment and exercise programmes can help to rectify problems with the back or lower limb.
Core strength training can alter posture, leading to a more efficient gait (walking pattern).
Orthotics and specific exercises can be used to correct problems with the foot itself.
Prescriptive Orthotics
There are many types of orthotics (specially designed shoe inserts) on the market but where pain and dysfunction need to be rectified, the only solution is a custom build orthotic designed specifically for your foot.
We use high quality, state of the art materials which offer the opportunity to control foot posture and modify pressure distribution.
Orthotics can generally be custom built within a few days and you will be instructed as to their correct use to allow the body to adjust over a period of time.
Various type of orthotic are available depending on budget, from professionally tailored “ready to wear” right up to bespoke rightstride® D3D and RS devices, featuring the latest in EVA and Co-polymer Carbon technology.
D3D Sports/Active
The rightstride® D3D bespoke orthotics are produced in EVA. This enables us to mix base and top material density creating support and comfort in one superb device. These versatile devices have been PROVEN to remain effective in the harshest of environments as demonstrated by service men and women all over the world. Neuropathic diabetic patients who require offloading of pressure also benefit from this unique orthotic with its amazing mix of material density.
Rs Marathon runner
The rightstride® RS bespoke orthotics are made in co-polymer carbon. Ultra durable, with a blend of functional control and dynamic flexibility resulting in the shell flexing under loading while remaining semi rigid under normal load.
A solution to the most demanding fashion shoe is here in the fashion fit orthotic and rightstride® provide us with huge range of different devices from the classic to the summer and winter Sports activities.
RSscan Lab’s advanced foot scanning systems and foot plates give accurate gait analysis, foot pressure measurement that will help in foot pain treatment.
