While selecting proper footwear, be sure to select shoes that force an arch in the feet. The span helps you run and walk with ease. Having a flat foot makes trying to run very fast quite difficult. Conditions often develop during childhood, or when you have to stand for long periods of time. Excessive stress due to playing competitive and recreational activities often play a part. This state is called pronation of feet. 70 % of the western population suffer some type of pronation, low to high level of severity.
Pronation is a natural movement of the foot that occurs during foot landing while running or walking. Foot movement is the result of three cardinal plane components: subtalar, eversion, ankle dorsiflexion, and forefoot abduction. These three distinct motions of the foot coincide during the pronation phase. Excessive pronation is the most common biomechanics issue and foot problem. When the arches of the footfall, a multitude of compensations take place throughout the body. These include pelvic misalignments, knee rotation, corns, calluses, bunions and plantar fasciitis. If you are facing any one of them, it’s time to speak to your chiropractor!
1. Bunions: A calcium deposit on the toe joint which causes widening of the foot
2. Calluses: A painful condition where the skins start thickening.
3. Ankle Varus: A pain in the lower legs and ankles
4. Heel Pain: A pain suffered when you first stand.
5. Plantar Fascia: A pain in the arc area
Chiropractors assess foot to function as part of your overall health care. Often these problems can be well controlled with regular adjustments and orthotics. Healthy exercises build your core strength. If you feel you have a pronation issue, it’s time to see your chiropractor.
Wearing the right type of insoles and shoes plays a significant role. A correct fitting pair of shoes or sandals can improve the condition of your feet. Negligence or wearing stilettos could cause long-term damage to your feet. There are brands of shoes available suitable for various conditions. Ask your chiropractor about proper footwear the next time you are in.
Happy Health and Happy living from All Care Family Chiropractic and Massage!