The Effect of Foot Pronation on the Body

Chiropractor and Acupuncturist Chapel Hill, NC

Foot pronation is a natural movement of the foot that occurs when the foot rolls inward during walking or running, allowing it to absorb shock and distribute weight evenly across the foot. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively, placing undue stress on the arch and inner side of the foot. Overpronation can lead to a variety of foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, shin splints, knee pain, and bunions.

Additional upstream effects of overpronation or ‘flat foot’ include: medial shifted patella (kneecap), valgus knee (aka knock-knee or knees point inward toward each other), medially rotated and adducted femur, lower ipsilateral (same side) iliac crest (hip), pelvic obliquely to the opposite side, lumbar spine shifts away from the midline, and elevated ipsilateral shoulder. Upwards of 25% of Americans have flat feet, and most people have some degree of Pronation Distortion Disorder, and chiropractic care can help.

How Does Foot Pronation Alter Biomechanics?

Foot pronation alters biomechanics from the ground up, affecting hip, leg, knee, and ankle mechanics, which can result in altered movement, hip and knee joint fixations, and pain in these areas. Muscle tightness and hyperactivity develop in specific muscles, primarily those of the lateral chain, including the gastrocnemius, soleus, peroneals, adductors, iliotibial band, iliopsoas, and hamstrings. Dr. Oskardmay can help these areas with massage and manual release, stretching activities, and foam roller exercises. Other muscles demonstrate compensatory weakness; these muscles include the anterior and posterior tibialis, vastus medialis, gluteus medius and maximus, flexor digitorum longus, and flexor hallucis longus. Strengthening activities can help these weak, lengthened muscles regain strength. Dr. Oskardmay will also make recommendations for home exercises.

What Causes Foot Pronation?

The causes of foot pronation are varied. These include: genetically flat feet, low arches, highly flexible feet, weak calf and gluteal muscles, tight Achilles tendons, and injuries to the ankles or other foot regions. Other causes include: obesity, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Oskardmay will evaluate each patient’s feet as part of a routine exam, as well as potentially other aspects related to overpronation, such as toeing out, toe extension limitations, stride length, heel strike, and other gait changes, including uneven hip rotation. Additionally, foot pronation reduces foot proprioception and balance. Through palpation, Dr. Oskardmay can determine if the foot and ankle joint play is adequate, fixed, or unstable and provide relevant care, as well as make suggestions regarding locally purchased orthotics or shoes.

Foot pronation is a common issue that many people experience, affecting their posture, pain, balance, and strength. At Acupractic Natural Healing Center, the chiropractic and acupuncture offices of Dr. Lisa Oskardmay, serving the Triangle since 1995, we look forward to helping you achieve better health, from the ground up. Call today to schedule an appointment (919) 929-1400, or visit us online at acudocnc.com 24 hours a day to learn more and schedule an appointment.