Shedding Light on Your Back, Pelvis, Legs, and Feet: A Comprehensive Look with Formetric Clinical Evaluation

Understanding how your body is functioning is essential to maintaining good physical health. Often, pain or discomfort in the back, pelvis, legs, and feet can stem from various underlying issues. A comprehensive examination of these interconnected structures is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This is where a Formetric Clinical Evaluation (FCE) Scan comes in.

  • What is Formetric Clinical Evaluation?

Formetric Clinical Evaluation is a sophisticated imaging technique that utilises advanced light-based technology to capture detailed images of your musculoskeletal system. Unlike traditional X-rays or MRIs, Formetric does not involve any radiation exposure. It generates comprehensive 3D or 4D (movement) images of your spine and pelvis along with detailed leg, gait and foot analysis.

  • Detailed Visualisation: FCE Scan imaging provides a nuanced, functional view of your spine, pelvis, legs and feet.

  • Improved Diagnosis: The detailed imagery facilitates better diagnosis of various conditions affecting the back, pelvis, legs, and feet, as objective results provide clarity.

  • Better Treatment Planning: With a clearer understanding of the underlying issue, healthcare providers can develop a more targeted treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may involve physical therapy, corrective exercises, or other non-invasive interventions.

  • Radiation-Free: An FCE Scan has absolutely no radiation exposure, making it a safe option for anyone, including those who may be sensitive to radiation, or require multiple scans for monitoring purposes.

  • What to Expect During a Formetric Clinical Evaluation (FCE Scan)

A Formetric Clinical Evaluation is a quick and painless procedure. Here’s what you can generally expect:

  • Preparation: You’ll start by filling out a short questionnaire. You may be asked to change into a gown or reveal your spine for accurate scanning (a chaperone is welcome). Bringing a pair of shorts is also advised for a thorough analysis of your pelvis, hips, legs, and feet.

  • Scanning: The scan takes place in a darkened room. Your Formetric specialist will be positioned about two metres behind you. You’ll see a light grid and infrared light projected onto your back. Each static scan takes around 15 seconds. The motion scan aspect requires you walking on a specialised treadmill for about 30 seconds per scan.

Two individuals are focused on an FCE Scan displayed on a computer screen; one is pointing at the screen while the other is looking intently at the display. | FCE Scan

  • Results & Recommendations: Your scan results are available immediately. You’ll receive a detailed report and your FCE Scan specialist will fully explain your results, the cause of any issues, and recommend a personalised rehabilitation or therapy program to address the root of your symptoms.

Note: The entire appointment, including scans, consultation, and recommendations, generally takes around an hour.

  • Who Can Benefit from a Formetric Clinical Evaluation scan (FCE Scan)?

Formetric Clinical Evaluation is a valuable tool for a wide range of conditions affecting the back, pelvis, legs, and feet. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing:

  • Chronic pain or discomfort in the back, pelvis, legs, or feet

  • Disc issues

  • Joint stiffness or soreness

  • Injuries such as sprains, muscle injuries or recurrent injuries

  • Suspected arthritis or other joint disorders

Formetric Clinical Evaluation is a safe, radiation-free option for detailed 3D imaging of the musculoskeletal system, particularly helpful in assessing functional movement and diagnosing conditions impacting posture, joints, and soft tissues