BIOMECHANICS
In treating chronic foot pain, and evaluating specific needs of patients, the podiatrist will often assess the anatomy and function of the foot and lower limb. This involves static, weight-bearing and mobile examinations of the limbs during gait. This assessment of the shape and motion of the limb allows for an effective diagnosis of the cause of injuries and/or the development of deformities. The analysis of the function of human motion is called biomechanics. Podiatrists perform clinical biomechanical evaluation of the lower limb. Specialised equipment, including mechanised treadmills with video and computerised assessment equipment, are often used by podiatrists to detect pathomechanical anomalies to ensure appropriate and effective treatment. This treatment may include specific exercises and the prescription of foot orthoses, from precise measurements of an individual's biomechanics.
SPORTS MEDICINE
Any sport which involves walking, running, standing or jumping places greater physical demands on our body than normal day-to-day activities. Injuries to the foot and lower limb make up a large proportion of sporting injuries. Podiatrists examine the foot and lower limb, have a knowledge of the biomechanics of athletic movement, diagnose foot conditions and can recommend appropriate footwear, training regimens, and, if needed, orthotic devices to fit into the sports shoe. Common sporting injuries treated by podiatrists include plantar fasciitis, achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, ankle sprains and shin or knee pain.