Biomechanical Therapy
Biomechanics and its related study deal with the forces that act against the body and affect things like our movement. In podiatry, biomechanics are studied to determine the movement of the ankle, toes, and the foot, as well as the forces that impact them.
Abnormal foot biomechanics is a major contributing factor in the development of pain and injury in the feet and ankles. Our experienced podiatrists are highly skilled health professionals trained to detect biomechanical abnormalities that may be the cause of your pain or may predispose you to injury.
Strapping and Taping
Strapping and taping are common techniques that podiatrists use to provide short-term stability and treatment to the ankles or feet for a variety of conditions. At Barrett Podiatry, we may use this to treat an injury or to adjust biomechanics. Strapping is a common method used to place the feet into a more ‘neutral’ position that can, in the short-term, indicate whether a neutral orthotic may be helpful.
Custom Orthotics
Orthotic devices are custom-made shoe inserts that are intended to adjust an irregular or abnormal walking pattern by altering the angles at which the foot strikes the ground. They help your feet function better and minimize stress forces that could cause foot deformity and foot pain.
Our custom orthotics are made for your feet based on bio-mechanical analysis, 3D scans, and your podiatrist’s thorough exam.
Is there more than one type of orthotic?
Orthotics may be rigid, semi-rigid or soft (flexible). Rigid orthoses are usually made of a firm material like plastic and are primarily designed to control function. Soft orthoses are constructed of flexible material that help absorb shock, improve balance and take pressure off tender spots.
How long will I need to wear orthotics and how long do they last?
Orthotics may require a gradual break-in period. Depending on your activities, you may need to wear orthotics indefinitely. You may also need periodic changes in your prescription as your foot function changes.
Proper Footwear
Commonly used, footwear modifications are a valuable tool to quickly change the function and pressure points on the foot. Make sure your feet are professionally measured to find a correctly sized shoe. Barrett Podiatry recommends iRun Texas. They have an excellent, educated staff that will help you find the right shoe for your foot type.
During your fitting, take into consideration the width, volume, arch height, foot shape, biomechanics, movement parameters specific to your sport, muscle factors and training regimens. Proper footwear may even be used as an ongoing or permanent method of helping your foot problem.
To find out more, check out our Shoe Recommendation page or contact us to schedule an appointment!