Pronation

One of the most common causes of foot and leg discomfort is a condition known as excessive pronation. Normal pronation, or "turning inward", of the foot is necessary as the foot adapts to the ground. With excessive pronation, however, the arch flattens, collapses, and soft tissues stretch. This causes the joint surfaces to function at unnatural angles to each other. When this happens, joints that should be stable now become very loose and flexible. At first, excess pronation may cause fatigue. As the problem gets worse, strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of the foot and lower leg can cause permanent problems and deformities.

Common signs of excess pronation

1. When standing, your heels lean inward.

2. When standing, one or both of your knee caps turn inward.

3. The bottom of your foot aches or you develop bunions.
4. You develop knee pain when you are active or involved in athletics. The knee pain slowly goes away when you rest.

5. You abnormally wear out the soles and heels of your shoes very quickly.

A successful treatment

Excessive pronation can be controlled or reduced. Your podiatrist at the Walking Clinic will prescribe treatment that brings the joints of the foot back into a more normal position, thus increasing arch stability and decreasing irritation between the bones involved.

The most successful treatment for excessive pronation is the use of prescription orthotics. Orthotics are medical appliances that are custom-made to correct your excess pronation. Made from high-impact plastics, orthotics fit comfortably in your shoes. As you wear them, they gently hold your feet in the proper position for comfortable standing or walking. The use of orthotics eliminates the painful symptoms of pronation.

Your feet are the base for your entire body. If you ignore problems in your feet, they will get worse and affect the rest of your body. Proper treatment for excessive pronation will improve the function of your entire musculoskeletal system. You'll feel better all over!