According to a study conducted by Paul DeVita, professor of kinesiology at East Carolina University in Greenville, NC, older people tend to slow down and use less muscles or biomechanics of the feet. While the study gained a lot of attention, DeVita set out for a new study using 110 runners aged 23 - 59 years old. Researchers studied the movement of these runners and found that with each decade the stride and speed dropped about 20%. This occurs because the lower leg and ankle muscles age earlier than other parts of the body causing them to falter and weaken before individuals are ready for them to.
Proper foot care is important for biomechanics, which incorporates the moving parts that manage the movement of your feet. To learn more about biomechanics, see Dr. Harris L. Klear from Burlington County Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.
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 to the area.
Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.
Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions, please contact our offices located in Marlton and Delran, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
