Gait/Biomechanical Assessment Sydney
A biomechanical assessment, also known as a gait assessment, involves assessing your body’s biomechanics. This involves analysing how different parts of your body move and if they are functioning and moving together correctly. Our biomechanical podiatrists are highly trained in identifying biomechanical abnormalities and a customised treatment plan for your unique problem.
What’s Involved In A Biomechanical Assessment?
To assess your biomechanics we perform a series of tests to identify any biomechanical abnormalities. These include:
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Non-weight bearing and weight-bearing assessment of leg length, hip joint, knee joint, ankle joint, rearfoot and forefront joints
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Gait assessment to see how you walk using slow-motion video analysis
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Alignment check of the foot ankle, knee & leg
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Muscle motion & flexibility of the lower limbs
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Muscle strength of the lower limbs - to detect muscle imbalance & weaknesses
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Balance tests
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Limb length measurements to find discrepancies
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Footwear assessment to find any abnormal wear patterns
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Discussion of lifestyle & past injuries
What to Bring to My Appointment
Please bring the following information to your appointment:
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Current footwear including sports shoes & everyday shoes
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Shorts so you can comfortably do the assessments
How Can A Biomechanical Assessment/Gait Assessment Help?
Whatever your goal is, whether that be pain-free movement or enhanced strength and performance, a gait assessment is the first step. A gait assessment can help to identify the root cause of your symptoms.
Even if you’re currently not suffering from any discomfort or pain, biomechanical assessments can help in identifying areas that might be at risk of injury and even improve athletic performance.
Our biomechanical podiatrists will find any abnormalities in your biomechanics and in doing so formulate a treatment plan that helps correct your specific issues. Depending on your unique inefficiencies, we may recommend custom orthotics, stretching or strengthening exercises, footwear changes and other therapies.
Get Assessed
Abnormal foot biomechanics is a major culprit in causing pain and injury in the feet, ankles, knees, legs and lower back.
Leaving your biomechanical problems untreated can place disproportionate force on certain areas as your body tries to compensate for the poor alignment. This in turn leads to increased tissue stress, pain and injury.
Biomechanical issues don’t always manifest in leg, back or foot pain. In some cases, you may experience foot problems like ingrown toenails, bunions, skin conditions and foot ulcers.
A gait assessment is especially important to have if you’re a diabetic. Poor foot mechanics can alter your gait patterns resulting in overloading certain areas on the bottom of the foot. If you are a diabetic, you may be more vulnerable to tissue breakdown & you want to reduce these pressure spots at all costs to minimise injury.
Our team of biomechanical podiatrists are specifically trained to detect and treat biomechanical problems. Book your biomechanical assessment by calling (02) 9954 3445 or filling out our booking form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Biomechanical Issues in the First Place?
Poor biomechanical patterns can develop due to a variety of factors including:
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Weakness or tightness in particular muscles
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Reduced or excessive range of motion in particular joints
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Poor footwear
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Excessive pronation
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Excessive supination
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Limb length differences
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Previous surgeries
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Pelvic instability & weak core muscles
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Genetic predisposition
Can Biomechanical Issues Ever Be Completely Fixed?
Sometimes yes, especially if corrections are made at an early age.
What if I Don’t Suffer From Any Pain - Do I Still Need a Biomechanical Assessment?
Yes - biomechanical problems can cause foot problems like calluses. They can also hinder your physical performance and predispose you to injury.
Are Biomechanical Assessments Covered By Medicare?
No, however we are covered by private Health funds depending on your level of cover.