Lower Limb Podiatric Biomechanics

The foot's design allows it to function as a support, a shock absorber and a lever for propelling the body forwards.

The muscles and joints of the whole lower limb and foot function in a co-ordinated and controlled way in order to produce the required movement and support.

It has been estimated that when running or playing sport, the impact through the feet is up to six times bodyweight. Increasing the demands upon our muscles and joints in this way can lead to wear and tear and repetitive strain injury, particularly if the is a structural misalignment or imbalance present.

Pain can occur anywhere in the low back or lower limb as a result of muscle, fascia or ligament strain and inflammation, stress fractures, cartilage damage or tendonitis.

At Brighton Podiatry we work with people who are affected by acute and overuse sports/dance injuries, and with recreational or professional sportsmen and women who want to avoid injury and maximise performance.

We analyse the way the feet and lower limbs function as a unit and the particular demands of each sport or activity are considered.

By comparing the individual's lower limb function and joint alignments to ‘normal’ function and alignment, an understanding of the cause of an injury may be determined.

Non-sports/dance performers of all ages can also fully benefit from this type of consultation if they are concerned about chronic lower limb pain.