Who we are
From the Director to the Receptionist, the Foot Mechanix Podiatry team have a wealth of knowledge and experience and are here to welcome you to the clinic and to put your mind at ease.
Karen Knightly
Podiatrist BSc [Pod], MCPod, HCPC Reg
Karen is a highly experienced podiatrist and the founder of Foot Mechanix Podiatry, specialising in biomechanics and detailed video gait analysis of the feet and lower limbs.
After qualifying from the Plymouth School of Podiatry, Karen developed her career in private practice in London and Surrey, focusing early on biomechanical assessment, gait analysis and sports podiatry. She later established a specialist sports podiatry clinic in Auckland, New Zealand, working with both professional and recreational athletes across a wide range of sports.
Since returning to the UK and founding Foot Mechanix, Karen has built a reputation for thorough, evidence-based assessment and practical, individualised treatment plans. Her clinical work centres on understanding how the feet, legs and posture function together, using detailed video gait analysis to identify the underlying causes of pain and injury rather than simply treating symptoms.
Karen works with patients of all activity levels, from everyday walkers to competitive and professional athletes. She has particular expertise in running-related injuries and complex biomechanical issues, and regularly treats runners, footballers, rugby players, tennis players, golfers, athletes and members of the British Army.
Her approach is focused, analytical and patient-centred, with the aim of improving movement efficiency, reducing injury risk and helping patients return confidently to the activities they enjoy.
Catherine Lawless
Patient Care Team
Catherine heads up our patient care team and will be your first point of contact. She is responsible for the smooth running of our clinic and can provide you with all the information you need and answer any questions you may have. She has a wealth of knowledge and aims to make your visit here a welcoming and positive experience.
In her spare time Catherine is a keen runner and regularly participates in local park runs, she also keeps fit with kettlebell classes and is a blackbelt in Karate.