What are biomechanics?
Biomechanics refers to the structure and function of biological systems. In medicine, biomechanics deals with the way the body moves and functions and the health of the biological and physiological structures and systems that support those functions. In podiatry, biomechanics focuses on the functions of the lower extremities, including the way you walk, run, and stand.
Dr. Blue has extensive experience in the biomechanics of the foot and ankle, focusing on treatments that help minimize wear and tear in these areas while supporting lifelong, pain-free movement and mobility.
Why is biomechanics important in podiatry?
Many studies have shown how important physical activity is to your health and well-being. And being active relies on staying mobile and nurturing the systems that support mobility. Biomechanics focuses on ensuring that your mobility systems are up and running, helping you to stay active and avoid future injuries.
Biomechanics is also very important in helping you stay as healthy as possible, from childhood through your senior years. Maintaining good biomechanics in your feet and ankles also helps reduce or relieve other problems with your musculoskeletal system, including knee, hip, and lower-back pain. It also supports better cardiovascular health and reduces the risks of developing diabetes and obesity.
How does Dr. Blue incorporate biomechanics into his practice?
As a fellowship-trained clinician and surgeon with a special focus on lower-extremity biomechanics, Dr. Blue is dedicated to ensuring that every patient has access to the same quality of treatment typically reserved for professional athletes. Dr. Blue begins treatment with a thorough evaluation of your lower-extremity biomechanics. The exam includes non-weight-bearing activities like passive movements of the foot and ankle as well as weight-bearing exercises to evaluate how well the foot and ankle structures perform under physical loads and stresses.
He’ll also perform a video gait analysis aimed at evaluating the way you walk and move to help zero-in on areas of weakness and instability that can impact your foot and ankle health (and your overall musculoskeletal health). He’ll also take a complete medical history and review your lifestyle. Then he’ll use all the information he gathers to help you:
- Improve your biomechanics
- Reduce your risk for future injury
- Continue to enjoy the sports and activities you love
