When I examine a patient's posture, my eyes travel from the ground up. I look at foot stance, pelvic position, shoulder balance, and head carriage. Each level relates to the one below it, so the feet are an important part of the overall picture.
When a foot imbalance is present, it can contribute to uneven loading of the knees, hips, pelvis, and spine. That is why something worn in the shoe may sometimes help a problem that seems far removed from the feet.
Why consider the feet when they do not hurt?
Foot support may be considered as part of care for concerns such as back discomfort, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, iliotibial band irritation, knee pain, leg fatigue, or repetitive stress from sports and prolonged standing. It is one part of a broader assessment rather than a universal solution.
Pronation means the foot rolls downward or inward. It is common, but the amount and effect vary from person to person. When one foot moves differently from the other, the legs and pelvis may compensate, creating tension farther up the body.
Orthotics are not all the same
Some orthotics are rigid, while others use flexible materials intended to support the foot's arches while allowing movement. The right choice depends on the person, the examination, and the intended activity.
Our office uses digital scanning to view the feet in a fully weight-bearing position. The images show how weight is distributed from side to side and can help guide a personalized recommendation when foot support is appropriate.
This is another way we look at the whole body and help patients start Living Well on Purpose.