Biomechanical assessment

Your consultant will talk to you about any pain or problems you're experiencing so your assessment can be tailored to your symptoms. They'll do a full examination of the limbs where you are identifying a problem, including looking at your range of movement and balance, around the area and joint, including the way you walk or run (gait) and your posture.

Your consultant may also look closely at your feet to examine the way your bones and joints are positioned (foot posture) and identify pressure points that may be the source of chronic pain. During your assessment, you may be asked to lie on a treatment couch, stand up straight, walk or run on a treadmill. Assessments usually take up to an hour.

Before your assessment, your consultant may request an X-ray or MRI scan of your hips, legs or feet. They'll let you know what to expect and answer any questions you may have.

On the day of your appointment, you should wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing appropriate for exercise. If you wear trousers, please be sure these can be comfortably rolled up above your knee. You may be asked to bring several pairs of shoes with you, including the ones you normally wear at work, at home and for sport or exercise.

Depending on the outcome of your assessment, your consultant may recommend a special insole or custom orthotics for you to wear in your shoes and refer you to a podiatrist.

If your upper limbs are affected you may be given supportive aids to help adjust or strengthen your movement, and referred to a physiotherapist. Your consultant will also let you know if any follow-up treatment or further assessment will be needed.