Pronation

What is Pronation?

When the arch of the foot is collapsed or rolls inward it is referred to as having ‘flat feet’.  When this happens the lack of support to the rest of the body, from the arch causes you to put pressure on other parts of the foot – which causes problems. You can over-pronate or under-pronate – this means that you either put your weight on the outside or inside of your foot.

Symptoms of Pronation:

The biggest sign that you will be pronating is discomfort and pain caused by having flat feet. As the arch drops walking becomes uncomfortable and the arch can turn out at the ankle causing the body to walk on the inner part of the foot. This can also put some serious stress on the ligaments and tendons around the ankle and in the foot.

You may also feel strain on your back and your joints as your posture may be affected by the pronation

Over time, the combinations of strain to the foot and joints can result in the onset of Arthritis, heel spurs, ankle sprains and back problems.

Causes of Pronation:

Flat feet can be hereditary and it is common for the condition to appear in young children.

However, pronation and flat feet are increasingly occurring in adults as more women’s choice of footwear is causing serious abuse to the feet. The muscles are becoming weaker because of the heavy strain being placed on them from standing or walking for long periods in high heels.

Relief and Prevention of Pronation:

Flat feet and pronation can be treated with properly fitting shoes.
Shoes should offer good support to the arch and metatarsal region. It is possible for you to use insoles to stabilise the heel and offer increased support.
Surgery is an option, and will be carried out to stabilise the bones in the foot and increase the support the foot is able to offer. A specialist will be able to recommend the right treatment for you.