A biomechanical assessment is done by our Canadian Certified Pedorthists, C. Ped (C), to determine what is needed to off-load pressure, create better alignment and to decrease pain.

This assessment includes a detailed history of previous and current pain. It also includes various motion and flexibility tests while standing and sitting. A pedorthist will perform weight bearing testing to assess how the lower limbs function and check alignment, looking for asymmetries, deformities, or abnormalities. These differences could be the possible cause of pain in the foot, ankle, knee, hip, and back. This also includes non-weight bearing testing to assess toe/ankle/knee/hip joint range of motion and muscle testing. 

Sometimes as a result of pain, or a difference or abnormality on one side, people alter they way they move without realizing it.

The Canadian Certified Pedorthist, C. Ped (C). will watch and learn how foot position and the way you walk can affect your lower body.

During the gait analysis, the Pedorthist watches the toes, feet, ankles, knees, hips, back, arm swing, balance, step cadence, head position, and trunk position. By watching how the whole body walks, this helps the Pedorthist determine as much information as possible in order to decide to how to make the orthotics.

 If there are altered mechanics, it can lead to pain if there is extra stress being placed on joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Luckily, Pedorthists are trained to determine if there are any differences that can be causing the pain and provide a solution. Our goal is to get as many details as to what causes the pain and look for reasons why this is happening.