What is the purpose of a foot assessment?

The purpose of a foot assessment is primarily to identify abnormalities and determine appropriate interventions. This process involves a thorough examination of the feet to uncover issues such as deformities, injuries, or other foot health problems that may impact a person’s mobility or overall health. By recognizing these abnormalities, a pedorthist can develop tailored treatment plans, which may include recommending appropriate footwear, orthotics, or other therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes.

While evaluating the cosmetic appearance of the feet may seem relevant, it does not serve the primary clinical purpose of a foot assessment. The same applies to measuring the length and width of the feet; though these measurements can provide useful information for fitting footwear, they do not directly address underlying health conditions. Estimating the age of foot conditions is also not a primary function of this assessment, as the focus is generally on current conditions and needs rather than historical observations.