Force Plate Analysis 

We are thrilled to use cutting-edge technology, normally reserved for elite athletes, into our day-to-day rehabilitation programs.

A force plate is a flat rectangular device that measures how forces are distributed across its surface. Think of it as a super-sensitive scale that not only tells you how much you weigh,  but also how the forces are spread out when you stand, jump or move around on it.

Imagine you are jumping up and down on the plate. It will measure not only how hard you are pushing off the ground but also how that force changes as you land. This can help us tweak your technique and figure out the best exercises to help you recover from an injury.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what a force plate does:

1. Measures Forces: When you stand or move on the plate, it measures the forces you are applying—how much pressure you are putting down, which direction you are pushing and how much force is shifting around as you move.

2. Collects data: It captures this data in real-time, which helps us understand how you move and interact with the ground. The data gets immediately uploaded to our cloud and we can recall it and compare your results. 

3. Used for Analysis: This data can be used to analyze things like balance, strength and the efficiency of your movements (i.e.: squats, deadlifts, jumps). It is commonly used in elite level sports teams and biomechanics labs to help improve performance or recover from injuries. Recent advancements in technology has allowed physiotherapy clinics to start using them and get objective data.

In physiotherapy, force plates are incredibly useful tools. Here’s how they can make a difference:

  • Assessing Balance and Stability Force plates can measure how well you maintain balance. By standing on the plate, therapists can assess how your weight is distributed and how much it shifts when you’re standing still or moving. This helps in diagnosing balance issues and monitoring improvements over time.

  • Measure isometric strength Objective data can help us track your recovery and allows us to take the guessing out of the decision making process. Having a clear understanding about side to side differences in your strength following an injury is immensely helpful. For example, after an Achilles rupture, we can measure your calf strength. We can compare your values to your healthy side, to the same side over time, and to the Achilles rupture population.

  • Measure jumps, like countermovement jump, multi rebound jumps, drop jump etc. We can also measure double leg and single leg jumps. By measuring your jumps, we can determine how well you can use your “brakes” and “engines” (braking and propulsive forces, respectively) which will guide the rehab process.

  • Tracking Progress By using the force plate regularly, therapists can track changes and improvements in your physical condition. This helps in adjusting your therapy plan based on real data rather than just subjective observations.

  • Customizing Rehab Programs The data from the force plate helps in designing tailored rehabilitation programs. For instance, if you have an injury, we can use the data to target specific areas for strengthening or adjusting your movement patterns to avoid re-injury.

Calf strength isometric testing in half kneeling

Using force plates helps us determine progress, return to sport readiness and identify deficiencies in your movement patterns (e.g.: limited push off or reduced “springiness”on the injured side).