What is biomechanics?
Biomechanics is the scientific discipline that applies the principles of mechanics to human movement. It incorporates the concepts of engineering and physics in order to understand normal and pathological motion, physical performance, and mechanisms of injury.
Biomechanics is the study of how and why we move. By measuring the motion and forces applied to the body during human movement, potential causes of dysfunction can be identified. Typical Physiotherapy or Personal Training assessments do not utilize biomechanical assessments due to a lack of expertise to perform this type of specialized assessment. A great deal of guesswork and assumption becomes necessary without the ability to evaluate whole body and individual joint motion during activity. At Physio for Life, we have the knowledge, skills and expertise to analyze biomechanics during simple and more complicated tasks using observation and hands-on perception.
In the future, we will consider the use of technology such as high-speed cameras, sensors and EMG telemetry.
How do I know if I need a biomechanical assessment?
Anyone who has difficulty moving or experiences pain during physical activity is a candidate for a biomechanical evaluation. For persons with pain, a biomechanical evaluation will determine if abnormal movement is contributing to your symptoms. Such an evaluation particularly is indicated when conventional forms of treatment have failed (i.e. surgery, injections, medications, chiropractic, physiotherapy, etc).
How can a biomechanical assessment help me?
Biomechanical assessments and testing will help identify the cause(s) or source of your pain. It can also identify problems before they become symptomatic and more serious. Many therapies focus on treating pain symptoms without treating the underlying cause. This usually gives only temporary relief at best. The only true way to eliminate pain is to treat it at its origin. By incorporating the information from your biomechanical analysis into a precise treatment plan you have the best opportunity to recover quickly, eliminate your pain, and prevent the recurrence of your injury. Interestingly you will find that your physical ability also improves as you reduce or remove these biomechanical faults.
What should I expect with biomechanical assessments?
Addressing pain (or a gait/balance issue) requires your physiotherapist to first figure out where the problem is coming from. This is why at our clinic, we perform in-depth biomechanical assessments to determine the root cause(s) of your pain and /or movement dysfunction. We use this information to design an individualized treatment plan addressing the root cause(s) of your pain as opposed to only treating the symptoms.
If you have never had a biomechanical assessment done, know that there is nothing to worry about. The skilled physiotherapists at Physio For Life in Vancouver are here to help you and explain what is happening during your assessment.
Although a primary focus of Physio for Life is dedication to the evaluation and treatment following injury or mobility problems, we also perform biomechanical assessments aimed at enhancing physical performance and preventing injury in non-injured persons.
Our assessments include return to sport evaluations for those who are recovering from injury or surgery and are striving to get back to their sports activity as quickly and safely as possible, as well as:
- Walking & Running Gait Analysis
- Return to Sports Evaluation
- Musculoskeletal Screening
- Injury Prevention Training
- Performance Enhancement
- Physiotherapy Rehabilitation
- Orthotic Prescription
- Figure skating Injury Rehabilitation and Performance Enhancement
Call us today to learn more about computerized running and gait analysis
Physio For Life in Vancouver is committed to providing the highest level of care to our clients. We utilize the best available research and technology and offer our clients an unparalleled level of personalized care. We continually strive to be at the forefront of evidence-based practice to achieve the best outcomes possible.
If you are living with a pain condition or physical limitation, contact our physiotherapy center in Vancouver today to learn more about how our biomechanical assessments can help you to get back to enjoying your summer and your life.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free!