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Robot Helps Researchers Study Ankle Biomechanics

BiomechanicsSun Jae Professor of Mechanical Engineering of MIT’s Neville Hogan has made the ankle’s stiffness the focal point of his research with the help of a robot called the AnkleBot. The AnkleBot works by mounting the bot to a knee brace, which is then attached to a custom-designed shoe. As the subject moves his or her ankle, the robot moves the foot along in directions within the normal range of motion. This experiment helps to understand the ankle’s biomechanics.

Studying the ankle’s biomechanics can help patients suffering from motor disorders and can even lead to the creation of safer footwear in the future. For now the Anklebot is being used to help patients regain their mobility.

If you are suffering from foot pain and think it might be caused by motor-related issues, you should seek the care of a podiatrist likeas Dr. Zahid Ladha, F.A.C.F.A.S. of Foot First Podiatry. Dr. Ladha can examine your feet and diagnose any potential conditions.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a sect of specialized podiatry that features licensed practitioners trained in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics focuses on the issues that affect the body and cause an interference with the biological structure. It also focuses on the foot and ankle’s movement and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

-Biomechanics historically dates back to ancient Egypt, which utilized professional foot care

-Biomechanics gained a high profile in 1974 thanks to the studies of Merton Root, who claimed by changing or controlling the ankle and foot’s forces, as well as diagnosing conditions and making corrections, could be used to gain strength and coordination to the affected area.

Improvements in modern technology are based on both therapeutic processes and past theories. These help provide a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide an accurate determination regarding the movements and patterns of the lower legs and feet with important information captured.

Increasing awareness and advances in available materials have helped enhance corrective methods and offer further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding the biomechanics of the feet can help alleviate and even eliminate pain and further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions, contact our office located in New Albany, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read the full article on Biomechanics in Podiatry.

Foot First Podiatry

3605 Northgate Ct Ste 206
New Albany, IN 47150
(812) 945-9221 (812) 945-7141

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3605 Northgate Ct Ste 206 New Albany, IN 47150

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The office is closed from 12:00 to 1:00 for lunch Monday thru Thursday.

Foot First Podiatry

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