In medicine, gait refers to your pattern of walking. A gait pattern can be divided into two phases, the stance phase and the swing phase. During the stance phase, your foot is in contact with the ground. In a typical gait, this phase begins with the heel touching the ground. Next, the whole foot comes in contact with the ground. Then the foot begins lifting off of the ground, starting with the heel and ending with the toes and entire foot coming off of the ground. The swing phase starts when the entire foot has left the ground and is in the air, ready to begin the next step. Sometimes, people have abnormal gaits that can cause various foot problems. An antalgic gait refers to a pattern of walking that causes pain. It is characterized by the foot spending a reduced amount of time in the stance phase. A high steppage gait refers to a pattern of walking that causes the foot to slap onto the ground during the first part of the stance phase. If you think your gait may be abnormal, it is recommended that you get it evaluated by a podiatrist. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.