» Pronation - Over Pronation
When the arch of the foot tends to roll inward it flattens out the arch and the result is flat feet. When people speak of over-pronation they are referring to the tendency of the foot to roll too much toward the instep side of the body. Read on for more information or take a look at the pronation products listed on the right. Depending on your condition and preferences, you may need corrective shoes, foot wedges, braces or orthotics.
» Pronation and Foot Alignment
It is very important for our feet to be in alignment because they are the basis for the stability of the entire skeletal structure of our bodies. With pronation, the arch of the foot rolls inward or becomes fully collapsed. This causes flat feet. With flat feet there is no arch support and arch support is vitally important to the health of your feet and in turn, the rest of your body. Flat feet can also lead to other more serious foot problems.
» Flat Feet can be Caused by More than Pronation
Other causes of flat feet include birth defects, hereditary conditions, muscles that have become weak due to the simple aging process, standing on your feet too long or wearing high heels or shoes that don't provide the proper amount of arch support. By wearing orthotics, you may be able to get the support that you need.
» Pronation - Signs of Flat Feet
The most noticeable sign of flat feet is pain and discomfort. Walking can become more and more of a chore as the arch drops further and further. The foot can pronate toward the outside of the body and put pressure on the foot in specific areas. In order to have good foot health, it is important that the weight be evenly distributed across the bottom of the foot with a good amount of arch support. Wedges, braces and good supportive shoes can help in this department. Over time, the added stress that is put on the tendons and ligaments can cause the bone structure to collapse. In the later stages you could get more frequent ankle sprains, heel spurs, lower back pain and arthritis. It's best to catch flat feet at an early stage and treat them with the appropriate foot care products.
» Over Pronation - Treatment for Flat Feet
The number one treatment for flat feet is a good pair of shoes. Your footwear should offer plenty of heel and arch support. Custom orthotics can go a long way in aiding arch support. If orthotics, shoe inserts, braces or wedges don't correct the problem then you should seek the advice of a qualified doctor, preferably a podiatrist.