Foot and Ankle Biomechanics: Form determines Function
Summary
When we think about foot and ankle injuries we need to realize that they are separate injuries, and are not separate in the underlying dysfunction. The foot and ankle are very closely interconnected, and require proper placement and orientation in order to function optimally and transmit force of a sudden impact up the chain instead of sustaining an injury. If the ankle and foot are already in a poorly placed position in static posture and dynamic movements, you will be more likely to sustain an injury over time due to the constant wear on certain structures that are important for maintaining joint position and stability. You may not be injured right away, but the constant wear on these structures will eventually falter and cause range of motion limitations, weakness, tenderness, tightness and pain.
Cause
The body is constantly adapting to the stresses that we place on it. When we exceed the structure’s ability to handle the stress, injuries occur. Over time, bad form and static posture will cause chronic holding patterns, where subconsciously your body goes to a seemingly normal position that is actually creating a dysfunction that will be extremely hard to break without constant effort to break. Moving from subconscious dysfunction to subconscious function takes a lot of work and effort. You can’t expect to get one treatment or one exercise or one habit change and expect your dysfunctions to go away.
Effects
At Structura, we look at the body as a whole. We take into consideration past injuries, static posture, movement dysfunctions as well as working directly with the soft tissues that can have an effect on the form and ultimately the function of how the foot and ankle work specifically for what we are discussing here. Several fascial chains have direct connections to the foot and ankle; specifically the lateral line, spiral line superficial front and back lines, and deep front line.
Treatment
At Structura, we look at the body as a whole. We take into consideration past injuries, static posture, movement dysfunctions as well as working directly with the soft tissues that can have an effect on the form and ultimately the function of how the foot and ankle work specifically for what we are discussing here. Several fascial chains have direct connections to the foot and ankle; specifically the lateral line, spiral line superficial front and back lines, and deep front line. These fascial lines have the ability to contract independently, hold stress and have knots, stimulating the sensation of tightness, pain, instability or weakness. This is why we may look in other places besides just your problem area to address the body as a whole. Releasing, unwinding and realigning fascia is what we specialize in, in order to get you back to doing what you love to do, PAIN FREE
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