The health of your feet can affect the biomechanics of the whole body, particularly the lower limbs and low back. The natural motion of the foot is to roll inward (pronate) after making contact with the ground. Pronation allows the foot to adapt to the contour of the ground and act as a shock absorber for the body. Too much pronation will cause the arch of the foot to flatten excessively, placing stress and pressure on the tissues and ligaments of the foot.

Over-pronation can lead to numerous problems including plantar fasciitis, ankle pain, shin pain, knee pain, bunions, Morton’s neuroma, patellar (knee cap) tracking problems and low back pain. Over-pronation can develop if there is a family history, following pregnancy, with obesity, or with age as supporting ligaments become lax. Check your old shoes for patterns of wear – over-pronation will cause abnormal wear under the big toe and the instep.

Your chiropractor will adjust the feet, knees, hips and pelvis according to need, as well as working with the muscles of the lower limb. If over-pronation is advanced, or you spend most of the day standing or participate in running/jumping sports, orthotics (special shoe inserts) may also be required. Podiatrists are experts with this sort of technique and will measure and assess your feet to see if you need orthotics, and fit them accordingly if you do. While they may take a little getting used to, supporting the arches of the feet with orthotics can make a huge difference and put a spring back into your step!

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