Patient assessment

What is a biomechanical assessment?

A biomechanical assessment is a tool used to study the relationship between your joint structures and their physiological functions while walking. In addition to this examination, the orthotist also analyzes your posture. This process allows them to establish an overall portrait of the mechanics of your body and to identify any anomalies that could affect its equilibrium.

The biomechanical and postural assessment includes several steps:

1. Assessment of the range of joint movements
2. Examination of your posture and alignment of articular structures
3. Gait analysis
4. Analysis of plantar pressures

Once the assessment is completed, two options are possible:

• If you have a medical prescription: depending on the pathology diagnosed, the orthotist discusses the custom or prefabricated product best suited to the needs of your treatment plan.
• If you do not have a medical prescription: the orthotist gives you the detailed report of your assessment and may, if necessary, reference it for consultation with the appropriate health professional (doctor, physiotherapist, etc.).

If the treatment plan recommends wearing any orthoses, measurements and a mould are taken for the laboratory design of your custom orthoses.