Biomechanics, gait analysis and orthotic insoles for Adults and Children
How a biomechanical assessment can help you
A biomechanical assessment examines the way you move with the aim of diagnosing a very wide range of conditions including:
A biomechanical assessment can inform treatment choices that may help:
- Reduce pain
- Reduce the risk of further injury
- Enhance gait efficiency
- Increase muscle strength
Biomechanical assessments can be used to help maximise skill performance and reduce the incidence of injuries in athletes and dancers.
Based on the results of a biomechanical assessment, a variety of interventions may be recommended to aid treatment, including:
- Exercises
- Stretches
- Footwear advice
- Taping
- Lifestyle advice
- Medication
- An orthotic insole
Orthotics, bespoke and off the shelf, can be prescribed during your assessment which may help address biomechanical issues. They can correct structural imbalances, provide support, cushion and improve foot function. An orthotic insole may help alleviate some painful conditions that cause heel, ankle, foot, knee, hip, back and neck pain. See the Orthotic insoles page for more information about orthotic insoles.
What to expect during a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis
A biomechanical assessment and gait analysis lasts one hour during which a thorough medical history will be taken. Rachel can examine the way you walk and stand as well as your posture. Please wear comfortable clothes as you may be asked you to walk, sit or lie down on a treatment couch.
You may be evaluated on the range of motion in your joints, your muscle strength as well as your body alignment and Rachel will consider how different pressures are transferred through your body which might affect your condition.
It will be very helpful if you bring some of your shoes/trainers to the consultation to assess how you wear them and how they have worn over time. Rachel is happy to discuss your footwear and recommend footwear.
If you are prescribed a bespoke orthotic insole, a cast of your foot will be taken in that assessment from which, based on the precise shape of your foot, your bespoke insole is fashioned. An orthotic insole can be made of different materials, densities and lengths depending on their use and be comfortably worn with a wide range of shoes and trainers. See the Orthotic insoles page for more information about bespoke orthotic insoles.
See the Sports injuries page for more detailed information about biomechanics and orthotic insoles for sportspeople. See the Children’s page for more detailed information about biomechanics and orthotic insoles for children and adolescents.
Follow-up orthotic insole fitting consultation
If an orthotic insole is being made for you, there is a free consultation three to four weeks after your initial assessment when Rachel makes sure your orthotic insoles are properly fitted into your shoes or trainers and any adjustments can be made. If you cannot attend the fitting appointment, your orthoses can be sent by post.
Plaster casts are kept in storage to make further orthotics if needed. An orthotic insole will normally last between 12 – 24 months depending on your age, your condition and type of use. All bespoke orthotic insoles are guaranteed for 18 months and most casts are kept for a minimum of 2 years should additional insoles be required. Many patients choose to have several orthoses for different shoes, which makes them more convenient to use and extends their lifespan.
Fees for a biomechanical and gait analysis consultation:
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- £80 for a one hour biomechanical assessment
If you are prescribed an orthotic insole the cost is:
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- £80 for the plaster cast
- £160 for a pair of orthotic insoles
There may be a charge if you also ask for a written summery of your biomechanical assessment.
Rachel Miller is recognised by most of the major insurance companies.
