Putting Your Foot Down

Many people suffer from acute (recent onset) foot, ankle, knee, hip and low back pain.  While some causes of this pain may be a result of previous injuries or osteoarthritis, some of these ailments can be corrected with a thorough examination of the foot.

There are two predominant foot positions that present in the clinic:  pronators (people that are flat-footed) and supinators (people who tend to walk on the outside of their feet).  Either of these conditions can lead to ankle, knee, hip and/or low back pain due to poor joint alignment based on the position of the foot in relationship to the knee and hip.

An examination by your physical therapist may reveal that properly designed orthotics will not only correct your foot position, but also aid in alleviating joint pains in the lower leg.  This modification, accompanied by a comprehensive stretching and/or strengthening program may allow you to return to your active lifestyle without the limitation of pain.

Ask your physical therapist if you would benefit from orthotic correction today and realize the freedom of life without pain.

written by:  Sean Marshall, MPT