Biomechanical assessment
We use advanced technology to analyse our patients’ individual biomechanics
We have at both our Lane Cove and Brookvale clinics a state-of-the-art Zebris diagnostic treadmill. Under its belt is a matrix of over 7,000 calibrated sensors, which maps the distribution of pressure and load as a patient walks barefoot on the treadmill. This is displayed as colour contours as shown below.
While the patient is on the treadmill a video camera is trained on their legs and feet, and this footage is synchronised with results from the treadmill sensors. Both are displayed onscreen in real time and are also recorded. During review, the recording can be slowed down or paused.
The information can be compiled into a comprehensive full-colour report. Over several pages this illustrates important parameters used in gait analysis. These include the gait phases (one foot on the ground, the swing phase and both feet on the ground); step length; lines of the centres of pressure (COP) etc. This is stored electronically as a PDF.
As well as being used barefoot, our treadmill can also measure the effect of shoes.
As well as walking, a client can also simply stand on the treadmill while the sensors measure the distribution of pressure over their footprints, helping to evaluate their posture.
This sophisticated system and its extensive reporting allows the most informed assessment of gait and posture available. According to the client’s reported symptoms, the information can be used to accurately diagnose the source of problems and to offer the most appropriate treatments.
