Have you ever wondered if you’re walking or running at your best? Whether you’re training to be a marathon runner or want to just keep up with your friends on your weekend walks, you don’t have time for anything that could be slowing you down or causing you pain.
Biomechanical assessments aim to answer your gait-related questions, and Zebris technology takes it up a step with its digital and high-tech data analysis. So what are you waiting for? Ready, set, go!
This article explores what Zebris research grade biomechanical analysis is, who it’s for, and its potential benefits. For personalised advice, contact our team at Capital Podiatry today.
A biomechanical assessment, or biomechanical analysis, is a method used by podiatrists to determine how your musculoskeletal system functions and its impact on your overall health. It involves a podiatrist analysing your gait, posture, joint mobility, muscle strength, and foot mechanics to look for any abnormalities or imbalances you may have.
With the information gathered from a biomechanical analysis, a podiatrist will aim to develop a personalised treatment plan geared towards addressing any underlying issues you may have. As such, if you notice any pain when you move or a reduction in your peak performance, a biomechanical assessment may be useful in uncovering why.
Many people undergo biomechanical assessments to better understand their gait, which is how we move when we walk and run. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy mum, or a senior, many people—particularly those who work with a our podiatrists—rely on the data from their biomechanical assessments to find out more about their gait and how they may be able to improve it for optimum performance.
Athletes, including runners, cyclists, and professional sports players, often undergo biomechanical assessments in an effort to enhance their performance and prevent injuries. By identifying biomechanical inefficiencies or imbalances, athletes of all types can receive tailored recommendations for training techniques, footwear, and orthotic support to optimise their movement patterns and minimise their risk of overuse injuries.
People experiencing chronic foot pain or discomfort, whether due to musculoskeletal conditions or repetitive strain, may benefit from biomechanical assessments to address underlying issues and develop targeted treatment plans. Podiatrists in Canberra and healthcare professionals may also use biomechanical assessments as part of their diagnostic process to evaluate a person’s gait, posture, and foot mechanics, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring progress over time.
Whether they work in construction, teaching, or healthcare, or run around with their children all day, people who rely heavily on their feet most days may undergo Zebris biomechanical assessments to identify and address potential issues that may come from prolonged standing or repetitive movements. Zebris technology aims to reduce the risk of developing work-related injuries and discomfort, allowing people to perform their jobs at their best.
People with a family history of foot conditions or musculoskeletal issues may benefit from Zebris technology by using it as a preventative measure. By identifying potential genetic predispositions or biomechanical abnormalities early on, a podiatry specialist may be able to recommend treatment options to reduce a person’s risk of developing that condition in the future.
Zebris research-grade technology uses state-of-the-art pressure and force analysis treadmills to provide comprehensive insights into your walking and running patterns. While older biomechanical assessments used just a treadmill and a camera, Zebris uses the latest technology to produce digital, high-tech data analysis.
This includes high-resolution sensors and advanced software that measures key data points such as your step length, foot pressure distribution, timing, and symmetry. By capturing such detailed information about so many aspects of your foot mechanics and movement patterns, Zebris technology allows podiatrists to assess your gait biomechanics like never before.
Whether you’re a casual walker or a competitive athlete, Zebris technology offers benefits such as:
What’s the difference between Zebris research grade biomechanical analysis and traditional gait analysis?
Traditional gait analysis tends to rely on not much more than a treadmill, a camera, and a podiatrist’s visual observation to evaluate movement patterns. Meanwhile, Zebris technology uses advanced pressure and force analysis treadmills equipped with high-resolution sensors and advanced software. This technology provides objective data on key indicators such as foot pressure distribution, timing, and symmetry, allowing for a more comprehensive assessment of your gait and biomechanics.
How long does a Zebris biomechanical assessment take?
A Zebris biomechanical analysis session typically takes 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the assessment and your specific needs.
Is Zebris technology non-invasive?
Yes, it is! Zebris technology is non-invasive and doesn’t involve any exposure to things such as radiation, making it a good option for many people, including children, the elderly, and pregnant people. However, it’s essential to tell your podiatrist if you have any medical conditions or concerns to ensure they’re able to take any appropriate precautions if necessary.
Who are biomechanical assessments for?
Anybody who is interested in a Zebris biomechanical assessment may undergo one, including children, the elderly, and people who are pregnant. When it comes to children, understanding biomechanical issues early in life may even assist in preventing future complications and allow young people to optimise their musculoskeletal health. Similarly, for elderly people, Zebris analysis may aid in identifying age-related changes in gait and balance, allowing for timely interventions to best maintain their mobility and independence. If you’re considering a Zebris biomechanical assessment for yourself or your child, there’s no time like the present!
How often should I undergo a Zebris biomechanical assessment?
The frequency of Zebris research-grade biomechanical analysis sessions depends on your unique circumstances and goals. For athletes or people with specific performance goals, regular assessments may be beneficial to track progress and adjust training programs. For those managing chronic foot conditions or recovering from injuries, semi-regular assessments may assist in monitoring rehabilitation progress so your podiatrist can adjust treatment plans as needed. Ultimately, it’s best to consult with your podiatrist to determine the most appropriate frequency of analysis based on your unique goals.
Can Zebris biomechanical analysis assist with specific foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis or bunions?
Yes, Zebris biomechanical analysis is available to anybody who would like to explore its potential benefits for themselves, including those with foot conditions and musculoskeletal issues. This modern approach to biomechanical assessments may even assist with these conditions, as they allow podiatrists to potentially identify underlying causes of these conditions and develop targeted treatment plans aimed towards alleviating symptoms and improving mobility. Zebris technology provides valuable insights into biomechanical inefficiencies or imbalances that may contribute to foot conditions, allowing for personalised interventions to address the root cause of discomfort and optimise musculoskeletal health.
No matter your age or lifestyle, the modern technology used in a Zebris biomechanical assessment may hold the answers to your movement. Whether you’re a student, an office worker, or hoping to play in the professional leagues, it may just be the best thing you do for your feet and overall quality of life. To find out more about Zebris technology, book your appointment with our experienced team at Capital Podiatry today.