Orthotics Help Put The Bounce Back In Your Step

by Dr. Brett L. Lukert, DC

Foot pain and disorders are much more common than they used to be. Research shows that up to 70 percent of the population has a biomechanical foot abnormality of some kind, and half of all Americans have missed work due to foot problems. This growing trend is largely due to the complexity and variation of the human foot, as well as the increasing number of overweight people.

There are 26 bones that work in conjunction with muscles, ligaments and tendons to support up to 1.5 times our body weight when we walk. When you consider the average foot travels 1,000 miles a year and that a one hour strenuous workout will create nearly one million pounds of pressure on our feet, it is obvious that there is a tremendous amount of stress on the feet.

Our feet are responsible for balancing, distributing and stabilizing this pressure, and if they can no longer do this due to a biomechanical deficiency, a foot orthotic can help correct and restore this normal stress distribution.

The most common biomechanical problems in the foot are overpronation (inward rolling of the foot and ankle) and collapsing of the arches (flat feet). These deficiencies can often lead to conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of foot), plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel), and shin splints.

Additionally, since overpronation also causes internal rotation in our hips and forward tilt of our pelvis, extensive research has shown a clear correlation between poor foot function and pain in the knees, hips and back. Ultimately, everything starts in our feet and works its way up, so we need to make sure our foundation is balanced and stable.

One of the most effective methods to treat foot disorders is with custom orthotics. The main goals of orthotics are to ensure proper balance in the feet and to improve biomechanical function. This is accomplished by correcting over or under pronation and providing appropriate arch support where it is needed.

Orthotics will help decrease foot fatigue, particularly in those who stand excessively, work on hard surfaces or are overweight. For those involved in sports, orthotics will help increase endurance, strength and performance.

Lastly, by improving biomechanical function, orthotics help make walking, running and cycling more efficient, while decreasing the incidence of injuries. If you are experiencing any of the above mentioned foot problems, consider getting an orthotic evaluation. Orthotics can be a very simple and effective way to help you be healthy, live healthy and stay healthy!