We have all heard that the foot bone is connected to the knee bone and the knee bone is connected to the hip bone...but still, few patients expect their back pain to involve their feet. In 7 out of 10 patients, postural fatigue and spinal strain can be traced directly to altered foot biomechanics. Orthotic therapy is a valid component of Chiropractic care when imbalance exists in the body’s foundation. It is also useful in cases of plantar fasciitis.
Pronation vs Supination
When a foot is severely pronated, or flat, it means its arches have fallen. Flat feet are less shock-absorbent and make for a less stable “base” for everything above: bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons throughout the body. Because pronation shifts the body out of its natural alignment, patients may experience aches and pains in the feet, knees, hips, neck and/or spine. Flat feet can also lead to injury and problems like shin splints, Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis. Women with flat feet are 50% more likely than those without to have low back pain.
Supination, or under-pronation, is common among people with high arches or tight Achilles tendons (the stretchy bands of tissue that connect your calf muscles to your heels). upination is considered natural for some people, but it places extra stress on your foot and leg that can cause problems elsewhere. That's because the shockwave from your heel strike isn’t absorbed properly and the outside of your foot bears the full force of your step's impact.
Purpose of Orthotics
Orthotics are used to align and support the foot/ankle complex in a more normal physiologic position for a weightbearing foot, to prevent dysfunction and/or improve function of movable body parts. In a nutshell, they will help ‘straighten your foundation,’ and we can work up from there.
The Process
We will take a 3D Laser foot scan of your feet (you won’t feel a thing). We will analyze your resting and walking posture.
Then Dr. Gibson will discuss and order the type of orthotics that will best correct your condition. Orthotics most commonly replace the insole of a shoe or sneaker. However, we are able to order entire orthotic shoes, even flip flops, that will be custom made for the arch of your foot. Unfortunately, orthotics are rarely covered by insurance. However, they are often necessary to prevent and reduce pain and misalignment.
Our Middletown chiropractic office has moved to 272 Valley Road, Middletown, Rhode Island.
