Functional Lower Limb Assessment & Plantar Pressure Analysis
At TherapyLab, we assess the feet and gait by combining specialist functional assessment of the lower limbs with plantar pressure analysis. This comprehensive approach helps us identify dysfunctions affecting the foot and the body’s entire kinetic chain, including the knee, hip and spine.
Our physiotherapists are trained in modern methods of functional foot assessment and orthotic insole fabrication. Their assessment and rehabilitation practices are evidence-based.
Specialist Functional Lower Limb Assessment
Functional assessment is the most important stage in understanding how the foot functions during standing and movement.
Unlike a simple foot examination, functional assessment examines the overall biomechanics of the lower limbs, taking into account the relationship between the foot, knee, hip and trunk.
The assessment examines:
1. Foot shape and mobility
The structure of the foot and mobility of its joints are assessed.
2. Lower limb alignment
Alignment between the foot, ankle, knee and hip is checked.
3. Muscle and tendon function
Muscle function affecting the stability and support of the foot is assessed.
4 Gait analysis
We record how the foot meets the ground and how loads are distributed during walking.
This assessment is particularly important.
The foot forms the body’s base of support.
The foot forms the body’s base of support.
- foot pain
- heel pain
- plantar fasciitis
- knee pain
- hip pain
- postural problems
- musculoskeletal lower back pain
Plantar Pressure Analysis – Analysis of Foot Pressure Distribution
Plantar pressure analysis is a modern diagnostic tool used to complement functional assessment.
It is a painless examination that accurately records the distribution of pressure across the sole of the foot during standing and walking.
A special pressure-sensor platform lets us analyse loading across the foot in real time.
The procedure includes:
1. Static analysis
Recording pressure distribution during standing.
2. Dynamic gait analysis
Recording pressure and foot function during movement.
Plantar pressure analysis allows us to identify:
- areas of increased pressure on the sole of the foot
- asymmetry between the right and left foot
- mechanical dysfunction of the foot
When is Plantar Pressure Analysis needed?
Plantar pressure analysis and functional assessment can help in many situations, including:
- flat feet
- high arches
- heel pain
- plantar fasciitis
- knee pain
- hip pain
- postural problems
- sports injuries
- leg length discrepancy
- walking difficulties
- strain caused by prolonged standing
This assessment is also particularly useful for athletes, runners and anyone whose lower limbs are exposed to greater loads.
Custom Orthotic Insoles
Based on the results of the functional assessment and plantar pressure analysis, custom orthotic insoles may be recommended.
Orthotic insoles are designed to:
- improve foot biomechanics
- distribute pressure correctly
- reduce strain on the joints
- absorb impact during walking
- improve posture and stability
- strain caused by prolonged standing
Each insole is tailored to the patient’s needs, daily activity, exercise level and footwear.
Why choose TherapyLab for a comprehensive Functional Lower Limb Assessment and Plantar Pressure Analysis?
At TherapyLab, we look beyond pressure measurements to assess the foot. Our comprehensive clinical approach combines:
- improve foot biomechanics
- distribute pressure correctly
- reduce strain on the joints
- absorb impact during walking
This helps us identify the causes more accurately and recommend the right treatment approach.