What should be primarily assessed in biomechanics to ensure effective diagnosis?

The primary assessment in biomechanics for effective diagnosis focuses on patient history and movement capabilities. Understanding a patient's history allows clinicians to identify any pre-existing conditions, previous injuries, or anatomical discrepancies that may influence their current biomechanics. Additionally, evaluating movement capabilities provides insight into how the patient performs specific tasks, their range of motion, strength, balance, and functional patterns during various activities.

This assessment is crucial because it helps healthcare professionals determine the underlying causes of any biomechanical issues, leading to more accurate diagnoses and tailored intervention strategies. By examining these factors, practitioners can design appropriate rehabilitation programs and monitor progress more effectively, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

In contrast, while symptom management, rehabilitation methods, and a patient's psychological state are important aspects of patient care, they are secondary to the detailed analysis of movement and history that underpins biomechanical diagnostics. Understanding the mechanics of movement is fundamental to addressing the source of a patient's issues rather than just managing symptoms or applying rehabilitation strategies without a clear understanding of the biomechanical context.