As seen in Fig.1, the foot influences either a balance or imbalance in the entire structure. The exam (Fig.2) is to detect both normal and abnormal medial arches ) pronation, normal or supination) as well as similarity between the right and the left medial arch.

In addition to the foot exam, a digital foot scan (Fig.3) is performed to detect weight bearing differences between the right and the left side to the body. An increase of "red" (Fig.4) demonstrates increased weight bearing, and is suggestive of an increased weight through that part of the foot as well as that side of the body. (Fig.5) shows the imbalance in the wear and tear of shoes when imbalances occur.

Muscles are like guy wires on any structure.  If overused through imbalance or overtraining, there will be an accumulation of toxins in that muscle, known as trigger points.  Trigger points reduce blood flow, shorten muscle fibers and lead to increased vulnerability of injuries if left unattended.  In (Fig. 9) the Stick® is used to detect soreness and tightness of the calf muscles.  In (Fig. 10), the examiner uses the thumb to evaluate the piriformis muscle, a primary muscle of the hip joint.

This will determine if a heel lift is also indicated.  (Fig. 11) shows the process to determine this.  (Fig. 12) shows a true difference.

The nervous system is constantly working to find “balance”, in spite of all imbalances, fixated joints, prior injuries and weaknesses.  In (Figs. 13 and 14), the athlete is seen tested for two 26 second periods, the first with eyes open, the second with eyes closed.  The measuring of the center of gravity with eyes open (red) and eyes closed (blue) gives a status report of each athlete’s center of gravity as well as the strength of their core muscles and nervous system (Figs. 15 and 16).  The ideal is for the graph to intersect the midline, and the greater the sway in the graph, the weaker these two systems are. 

This is the most valuable test performed.  Biomechanical information that is seen on an x-ray is the nucleus of every corrective program.  4 views are taken in the standing position (Figs. 17 and 18).

On each of the x-rays, we will first rule out any disease process or abnormality that would suggest the need to be referred to another specialist.  We will then review, measure and consider the wealth of biomechanical information that is available on these x-rays, such as alignment, balance, rotations, centers of gravity, wear and tear, etc.