Flat feet and overpronation are related conditions that affect the way a person’s foot functions while walking or running.
Flat Feet
Flat feet, also known as pes planus, is a condition in which the arch of the foot is lowered or absent, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground when standing or walking. This can be caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, injury, or muscle weakness. There are many causes of flat feet. Obesity, pregnancy or repetitive pounding on a hard surface can weaken the arch leading to over-pronation. Often people with flat feet do not experience discomfort immediately, and some never suffer from any discomfort at all. However, when symptoms develop and become painful, standing, walking or running becomes awkward and painful.
Overpronation
Overpronation is a biomechanical abnormality in which the foot rolls too far inward while walking or running. This can occur when a person has flat feet, but it can also occur in people with normal arches. Overpronation can lead to an uneven distribution of weight and pressure on the feet, which can result in pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, knees, and hips.
When a person with flat feet overpronates, their foot rolls inward excessively, causing their arch to collapse further and their ankle to roll inward. This can cause the foot to become unstable, and can lead to problems such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and stress fractures.
This motion can cause extreme stress or inflammation on entire lower limb, pelvis and spine.
Treatment For Flat Feet and Overpronation
Flat feet and overpronation is effectively treated conservatively (non-surgical treatments) include exercises to strengthen the muscles in the feet and legs, and Custom Orthotics. Custom Orthotics provide support and stability.
In the case of flat feet, custom orthotics can help to provide arch support and distribute weight more evenly across the foot. This can help to relieve pain and discomfort in the feet, ankles, knees, and hips. Orthotics can also help to improve balance and stability, making it easier to walk or run.
For overpronation, custom orthotics can help to control the excessive inward rolling of the foot. They can provide additional support to the arch, which can help to stabilize the foot and prevent it from rolling too far inward. This can help to reduce the risk of injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and stress fractures.
Neil SMith and the Vertical Foot Alignment System (VFAS) Device