Your feet serve as the foundation for human mobility. They are nothing short of marvels of engineering, designed to support your entire body weight, absorb shock, and facilitate movement. Each foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all working in harmony to enable a wide range of actions. The arches of the feet, defined as longitudinal and transverse, act as natural shock absorbers, adapting to various surfaces while maintaining stability. Feet play an essential role in balance, stability, and posture. The soles, packed with sensory receptors, provide constant feedback to the brain, aiding in balance and coordination. Furthermore, the feet can endure significant stress, clocking thousands of miles in a lifetime. In essence, feet are not merely anatomical structures, they are the unsung heroes of our daily lives, ensuring we stand, walk, run, and dance through life with grace and resilience. If you would like to learn additional facts about the function of the feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who is an expert in this field. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Egg Harbor Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.