RGV Foot & Ankle Institute
Functional
Assessments
Comprehensive gait and biomechanical analysis to find the true cause of foot, knee, hip, and lower back pain — for patients across McAllen, Edinburg, Mission, and the Rio Grande Valley.
Gait & Biomechanical Analysis
Treat the cause, not just the symptom
Recurring pain in the feet, knees, hips, or lower back is almost never an isolated problem. The way you move — your gait, joint range, muscle strength, and foot mechanics — determines where load is placed on your body with every single step.
A functional assessment at RGV Foot & Ankle Institute uses video gait analysis, pressure mapping, and hands-on biomechanical testing to find the true source of your pain or performance limits — not just the spot that hurts today.
From there we build a personalised plan combining strengthening, footwear, orthotics, and therapy so you can return to running, sport, work, or just walking without pain.
What's Included
A complete picture of how you move
Video Gait Analysis
Slow-motion video of you walking and running uncovers patterns the naked eye cannot see — frame by frame.
Pressure Mapping
In-shoe and barefoot pressure data shows exactly where load is concentrated on each foot during movement.
Joint & Strength Testing
Range of motion, flexibility, and strength testing of the foot, ankle, knee, and hip to find weak links in the chain.
Personalised Report
You leave with a clear written plan — strengthening, footwear, orthotics, and rehabilitation — tailored to your goals.
When to Book One
Reasons to consider an assessment
If any of the following sound familiar, a functional assessment can give you the answers — and the plan — you've been missing.
- Recurring heel, arch, or forefoot pain
- Shin splints or stress fractures
- Knee, hip, or lower back pain that returns with activity
- Running injuries that won't fully resolve
- Frequent ankle sprains or instability
- Unequal shoe wear patterns
- Children with in-toeing, out-toeing, or tripping
- Pre-orthotic prescription and footwear review
How It Works
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Detailed History
We discuss your symptoms, activity, footwear, training load, injury history, and what you want to get back to doing pain-free.
Static Assessment
Joint range, muscle strength, foot posture, and alignment are measured from the lower back down to the toes.
Dynamic Assessment
Video gait analysis and pressure mapping while you walk and run, plus functional movement screening like squats, lunges, and single-leg balance.
Plan & Implementation
We walk you through the findings, agree on a plan — strengthening, footwear, orthotics, shockwave, or referral — and book the next steps.
FAQ
Common Questions About Functional Assessments
What is a functional assessment?+
A functional assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of how your whole body moves — not just your feet. It combines a detailed history, hands-on joint and strength testing, video gait analysis, and pressure mapping to find the true source of recurring pain, injury, or performance limits.
Who should book a functional assessment?+
Anyone with recurring lower-limb pain, runners and athletes who want to optimise performance and prevent injury, patients being considered for orthotics, parents concerned about a child's gait, and anyone returning to activity after injury or surgery.
How long does the appointment take?+
A full functional assessment typically takes 45 to 60 minutes. We never rush — getting the diagnosis right the first time saves months of wasted treatment.
Do I need to bring anything?+
Please bring the shoes you spend the most time in — work shoes, running shoes, and any orthotics or insoles you currently use. Wear or bring shorts so we can clearly see the lower limb during gait analysis.
Will I leave with a treatment plan?+
Yes. You'll leave the assessment with a clear written summary of our findings, the root cause of your issue, and a step-by-step plan — which may include strengthening exercises, footwear changes, custom orthotics, shockwave therapy, or referral to another specialist.
Is this only for runners and athletes?+
Not at all. Functional assessments help everyday walkers, office workers, tradies, retirees, and children just as much as competitive athletes. If your body is moving in a way that's causing pain or limiting you, an assessment is worth it.
Is the assessment covered by insurance?+
Coverage varies by plan. Our McAllen front desk team will verify your benefits and review out-of-pocket options before your appointment. HSA and FSA accounts can typically be used.
Find the real cause of your pain
Book a functional assessment with Dr. Galvan and his team. Same-day appointments are often available across the Rio Grande Valley.
Other Services
Minimally Invasive Bunion & Hammertoe Surgery
Micro-incision bunion and hammertoe correction — minimal scarring, walk the same day, no general anesthesia.
Laser Nail Therapy
Advanced laser treatment for fungal toenails and psoriatic nails — safe, painless, and clinically proven.
Regenerative Therapies
PRP, prolotherapy, and biologic injections that accelerate your body's natural healing of chronic foot and ankle pain.