Tag Archives: Plantar Fasciitis

Biomechanical or MSK (Musculo-skeletal) assessment

Bio-mechanics, Feet, Foot Care, plantar faciitis, Podiatry, Shockwave, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

There is an increasing interest in the functional structure of the foot and how it can affect the rest of the body. The feet are the foundation on which the structural integrety of the rest of the body depends, and just like a building, reliability over time depends on the foundation being level and stable.

Biomechanical/MSK podiatry focuses on the assessment and treatment of foot and lower limb issues related to structure, function, and movement patterns during locomotion, i.e. standing, walking and running.

This specialized field of podiatry is dedicated to addressing conditions that impact the biomechanics or functional structure of the feet and how they affect the rest of the body.
Individuals may seek a biomechanics/MSK podiatry assessment for various reasons, including foot pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, heel spurs, and sports-related injuries. These issues can affect standing, walking, running, and overall mobility and flexibility, leading to discomfort and limitations in daily activities.

During a biomechanics/MSK podiatry assessment, a podiatrist will conduct a thorough evaluation of the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. This may involve analyzing the patient’s gait, assessing foot structure and alignment, testing muscle strength and flexibility, and examining joint range of motion.

In some cases, specialized equipment such as pressure plates or 3D foot scanning may be used to gather additional data.

After the assessment, the podiatrist will discuss their findings with the patient and develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include orthotic therapy to support proper foot alignment, exercises to strengthen weak muscles, footwear recommendations, and advice on injury prevention strategies.
Patients can expect improvements in foot function, reduced pain, enhanced mobility, and overall better quality of life as a result of biomechanics/MSK podiatry treatment.

Regular follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. By addressing biomechanical issues in the feet, individuals can experience long-term relief and improved function in their lower limbs and beyond.

If you would like more information, to speak to one of our podiatrists or to make an appointment, give us a call on 01628 773588 or email info@maidenheadpodiatry.co.uk

Why do I have heel pain?

Bio-mechanics, Chiropractic, Feet, Foot Care, plantar faciitis, Podiatry, Shockwave, , , , , ,

What is causing my heel pain?

At Maidenhead Podiatry our Podiatrists are regularly asked about heel pain which is often at its worst first thing in the morning or when walking after a period of rest.

The first part of the gait cycle, where your foot has its first contact with the ground, is called ‘heel strike’.

During walking and running your heels repeatedly hit, or strike, the ground with considerable force.

For correct function they need be able to absorb the impact and provide a firm support for the weight of the body through the gait cycle.

There are various types of heel pain.

Some of the most common are heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, heel bursitis and heel bumps (Haglund’s)

As heel pain is often associated with inflammation it means that the pain can worsen with rest.

This is why can can be at its most painful when we first get out of bed or when we have been sitting having a coffee and stand to walk.

“Pain is a warning – don’t ignore it!”

Heel spurs

These can generate pain but they are the most commonly misdiagnosed form of heel pain.

You can have heel spurs with no pain and pain with no heel spurs.

Even when pain is caused by heel spurs the pain may not persist even though the spurs do.

If you do have heel spur pain it is usually felt on standing, particularly first thing in the morning when you first put your feet on the floor from bed.

It is not uncommon, though tends to occur more in the over forty age group.

There is nothing to be seen on the heel but a deep localised painful spot can be found in or around the middle of the heel pad.

It is often associated with a spur of bone sticking out of the heel bone (heel spur syndrome), however approximately ten per cent of the population have heel spurs without any pain.

A clear diagnosis requires imaging, usually either X-ray or ultra-sound.

Plantar Fasciitis

Often similar in symptom to heel spurs, pain is usually experienced more to the inside of the heel around the insertion of a muscle called Anterior Tibialis towards the back of the inner arch.

This condition is often associated with over-pronation (rolling the foot inwards) during standing, walking and running.

Pain can also be due to inflexible calf muscles and repeat stress injury.

It can also be due poor footwear choices, old unsupportive shoes and injury, among other causes.

Diagnosis is often achieved with bio-mechanical assessment, with treatment through prescription of specialist custom insoles (orthotics) and the implementation of a rehabilitation and exercise programme.

Shockwave is also very effective treatment for plantar fasciitis.

Heel Bursitis

A bursa is a fluid filled sack the body uses for cushioning or padding, often under tendons.

When a bursa experiences trauma of repeat stress it can swell, leading to bursitis.

Pain can be felt at the back of the heel during ankle movement and there might be a swelling either side of the Achilles tendon.

Pain may also be felt deep inside the heel when it makes contact with the ground and can feel like a deep bruise.

Treatments can include rest, stretching exercises and orthotics.

Heel Bumps

These bumps are also known as Haglund’s Deformity.

This is recognised as a firm bump or enlargement of the bone on the back of the heel where the Achilles Tendon attaches.

Haglund’s are often associated with bursitis.

They are often caused by rubbing of the shoe heel counter and can be quite painful especially during exercise.

Treatments include changing or modifying footwear, stretching and ultimately, surgery.

What can you do for yourself?

Stretching can help with heel pain but it is dependant on knowing the cause so that your self-help is appropriate.

If pain persists consult a Podiatrist for assessment and a treatment plan.

Alternatively, you can speak to your GP who can arrange imaging, physiotherapy and if the pain persists, steroid injections.

Remember – pain is a warning – don’t ignore it!

What can we do for you?

Successful treatment is always based on accurate assessment.

We offer bio-mechanical assessment, gait analysis, custom orthotics and Shockwave – where appropriate.

More information is available on our website.

To make an appointment with one of our Podiatrists please call 01628 773588.