Business Details
27 Years
experience
Expert Podiatry Services in Cobham
Foot Mechanix has been dedicated to resolving foot and ankle pain since 1999. Our expertise lies in advanced biomechanical assessments using digital video gait analysis and computerised pressure systems, enabling precise diagnosis of musculoskeletal issues. We serve a diverse clientele, from children to professional athletes, combining traditional methods with cutting-edge technology to create tailored treatment plans.Our team, led by HCPC-registered podiatrist Karen Knightly, prioritises prevention, rehabilitation, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care. With over 25 years of experience in sports podiatry and biomechanics, we have established a reputation for transforming patients' mobility and quality of life through orthoses, shockwave therapy, and exercise programmes.
Services
Video Gait Analysis
Biomechanical Evaluation
Custom Orthoses
Shockwave Therapy
Exercise Programmes
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of specialist experience in sports podiatry and biomechanics
- Advanced diagnostic tools including video gait analysis and pressure mapping
- Personalised treatment plans combining orthoses and rehabilitation exercises
- HCPC-registered practitioners with proven success in complex cases
- Proven track record treating professional athletes and chronic pain sufferers
Associations and certifications
- HCPC
What people say
Life-changing orthotics
Expert gait analysis
Effective shockwave therapy
Professional and thorough
Transformed mobility
Services
Video Gait Analysis
Using treadmill-based video analysis, we identify abnormal movement patterns that cause pain or injury. Our Sprintex treadmill and Contemplas software capture slow-motion footage to measure joint angles and synchronise gait comparisons before and after treatment. This technology helps patients understand their biomechanics and guides footwear or orthotic recommendations.
Biomechanical Evaluation
We assess your entire kinetic chain from feet to spine, measuring leg length, pelvic alignment, and joint ranges of motion. This comprehensive evaluation identifies structural imbalances that may cause pain in feet, knees, hips, or back. Findings inform custom orthotic prescriptions and rehabilitation strategies tailored to your body's unique mechanics.
Custom Orthoses
Prescription orthoses correct foot imbalances causing pain in arches, heels, or lower limbs. Using 3D scanning and pressure mapping, we create bespoke insoles that improve alignment and reduce stress on joints. Patients report significant improvements in conditions like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and knee pain through this targeted support.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy
This non-invasive treatment delivers targeted shockwaves to stimulate healing in chronic soft tissue injuries. We use it for conditions like Achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis that haven't responded to conventional treatments. Most patients experience pain reduction after 3-4 sessions, often avoiding surgical intervention.
Exercise Programmes
Tailored exercise plans address muscular imbalances identified during biomechanical assessments. We prescribe specific stretches and strengthening routines to complement orthotic therapy, improving stability and preventing recurrence. Programmes adapt to patients' lifestyles, from daily activities to elite sports performance requirements.
People
Karen Knightly
Podiatrist
Karen graduated from Plymouth School of Podiatry in 1993 and established Foot Mechanix in 1999. With specialist expertise in sports podiatry and biomechanics, she has treated athletes from recreational runners to Olympic triathletes. Her approach combines clinical experience with advanced diagnostic technology to resolve complex foot and lower limb conditions.
Catherine Lawless
Patient Care Team
Catherine manages clinic operations and patient communications, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors. A keen runner and martial arts blackbelt, she understands the importance of mobility and active lifestyles. She provides practical guidance on appointment scheduling and treatment preparation.
Questions
What conditions do you treat?
We specialise in foot and ankle pain, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles injuries, bunions, and sports-related conditions. Our biomechanical approach also addresses knee, hip, and back pain caused by gait abnormalities.
Do you accept private health insurance?
Yes, we are registered with major insurers including BUPA and AXA PPP. Patients should check their policy coverage and obtain authorisation numbers before appointments.
How long does a biomechanical assessment take?
Initial consultations with full gait analysis typically last 60-75 minutes, allowing comprehensive evaluation and discussion of findings.
Are your orthoses covered by insurance?
Custom orthoses are often covered under musculoskeletal benefits. We provide detailed invoices with medical coding to facilitate insurance claims.
Can you help with children's foot problems?
Yes, we treat paediatric conditions including flat feet, growing pains, and sports injuries. Early intervention helps prevent long-term mobility issues.
What technology do you use?
We employ video gait analysis, RSscan pressure mapping, and 3D orthotic design systems to ensure precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
