Pronation is the flattening out of the arch with the ankle bending medially (inwardly) when the foot strikes the ground. Pronating is a normal motion, allowing the foot to absorb shock when the heel hits the ground and to assist in balance during mid-stance. The problem is with excessive pronation and the term “pronating foot” refers to a foot that overpronates.
Overpronating creates abnormal gait that cause problems with the foot, ankles and knees. Although most who overpronate have low arch to flat feet, some do have higher arches. The opposite of pronation is supination, where the ankle does not bend enough medially (inwardly).
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Flat foot
- Fallen arches
Symptoms:
- Calluses developing on the underside of big toes
- General foot fatigue and ankle pain
- Pain across the top of the foot
- Calf muscle pain, shin splints, medial knee pain
- Lower back pain
Signs to look for:
- Outer heel of shoes excessively worn
- Flat feet
- Ankle and cuboid bone protrude inward
- When standing, one or both kneecaps turn inward
Possible Causes:
- Genetic
- Injury
- Wearing shoes without firm counters for years
Goals:
- Create an arch that will correct motion of foot while walking
- Restore posture
- Reduce pressure and friction on the toes
- Restore alignment to the ankle, top of the foot and knees
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank with straight last
- Straight last
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary
- Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only
Other:
- Where the above shoes do not provide enough stabilization, internal and/or external wedging may be necessary
- Toe cushioning and straightening devices, such as toe separators, toe straighteners, toe caps, toe crests, etc.
Activities:
- Regular stretching program of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles, Achilles tendon and arch structures
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Foot.com Text: B. Meanwell, CPed, G. Copeland, DPM, The Foot Book