Tim Veysey-Smith,  M.Ch.S. Dip. Biomechanics
Podiatrist

               What is Podiatry?

Podiatry involves the diagnosis, treatment and management of disorders affecting the foot, ankle and lower limb. This can involve everything from simple foot and nail treatments, to more complex problems, such as foot, knee, hip and back pain arising from misalignments in the lower limb. Such misalignments can be compensated for by the fitting of specialised insoles, called Orthotics, or Orthoses, to improve balance, stability, and alignment in the joints of the lower limb.

Podiatrists are registered with the Health Professions Council (www.hpc.org) and are required by law to undertake regular ongoing training and development to maintain existing skills, and develop new ones.

              What will happen at my appointment?

The initial appointment starts with taking of a full medical history. This is important as certain medical conditions can have a bearing on the subsequent treatment recommended. This is followed by a general assessment of lower limb circulation, alignment, movement and posture. The aim being to identify any abnormalities which may need further treatment. During this initial appointment any painful problems are dealt with, and a follow up or course of treatments may be required to fully deal with the problem. Depending on what is found resulting from that initial examination, a fuller and more comprehensive assessment may be suggested, usually involving Computerized Gait Analysis and a full Biomechanical Assessment. At every stage the treatment options and likely costs are fully discussed.

               What is a Biomechanical Assessment?

Biomechanics is the name given to the scientific study of human movement. In terms of Podiatry a Biomechanical Assessment involves a full assessment of lower limb function and efficiency in standing and walking.

             Computerised Gait Analysis

Gait Analysis is, very simply, an analysis of how you walk. At the Tonbridge Clinic patients are assessed using the Tekscan© Pressure Matscan System. This is a mat placed on the floor and connected to a laptop computer which picks up data as the patient walks across it. This records important information such as the speed and angle of gait, any high pressure areas and excessive forces acting on the foot, and gait abnormalities such as over pronation. This data enables a very accurate diagnosis and prescription to be made.

               What are Orthotics?

Orthotics, or Orthoses, are specialised insoles that fit into the shoe and compensate for misalignments in the lower limb, thereby improving balance, stability and movement. The consequence of better alignment also leads to less wear and tear on the joints of the lower limb over time and improves painful symptoms. These days, Orthoses are constructed from very light, strong materials such as Carbon Fibre and Polyprolene.

               Will they fit in my shoes?

You may be concerned that orthoses ‘won’t fit in your shoes’. However, using the thin light materials mentioned above, they can be designed to fit into any type of shoe, including Trainers, Courts, and High Heels.

Some of the conditions orthoses can be useful in the treatment of are:

• General Foot Pain
• Heel Pain (sometimes called Policeman's Heel)
• Arch Pain
• Shin Splints
• Knee Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Metatarsalgia
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Over Pronation

If you are suffering from aches and pains anywhere in the lower limbs, it may be worth considering whether orthoses can help you.

           But the Chemist sells Orthotics!

Simple 'over the counter' insoles can be purchased from high street retailers and do provide a measure of comfort and support, however they wear out quickly and are too soft to provide effective compensation for lower limb misalignments. Prescription orthoses, on the other hand, are specifically designed and constructed for each individual patient's needs, rather like a pair of glasses. They are also very strong and are guaranteed for life against breaking or losing their shape.

             Children and Orthotics

Orthoses are helpful in children in compensating for conditions such as flat feet, in-toed gait, misalignment of toes, Severs Disease, and Growing Pains. Early intervention is important in children as bony deformities and muscle imbalances can become set in adult life, making treatment more difficult.

All children’s orthoses come with a comprehensive insurance policy covering loss, damage, and, most importantly of all, outgrowth.

Looking after your feet is vital! Your feet are the interface between the ground and your body. If they are not functioning efficiently, your whole body will eventually suffer with gradual loss of mobility, and progressive aches and pains.

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