Pronation and foot orthosis - the basics

Pronation is a natural movement of the foot that occurs during weight-bearing activities such as walking or running. It is the inward roll of the foot that occurs when the foot hits the ground. Pronation is necessary for the foot to absorb shock and adapt to the surface of the ground, however, excessive pronation can lead to a number of musculoskeletal problems such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and knee pain.

Foot orthoses, also known as orthotic insoles or arch supports, are devices that are inserted into shoes to provide support for the feet and control excessive pronation. They can be custom-made by an orthotist or can be purchased over-the-counter.

A study by G. J. S. van der Wurff et al, published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research in 2007, found that the use of foot orthoses can be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis. The study included 60 patients with plantar fasciitis who were randomly assigned to either a group that received custom-made foot orthoses or a group that received a sham treatment. The study found that the group that received foot orthoses had a significant improvement in pain and function compared to the group that received the sham treatment.

Another study by A. G. C. M. Janssen et al, published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy in 2007, found that the use of foot orthoses can be effective in reducing the risk of developing lower leg injuries in runners. The study included 208 runners who were randomly assigned to either a group that received foot orthoses or a group that did not receive foot orthoses. The study found that the group that received foot orthoses had a reduced risk of developing lower leg injuries compared to the group that did not receive foot orthoses.

It is important to note that not all foot orthoses are created equal and it is important to consult with a qualified orthotist to determine the most appropriate type of foot orthosis for an individual's needs. Custom-made foot orthoses are typically more expensive than over-the-counter options, but they are tailored to the individual's foot and can provide a better fit and more specific support.

In conclusion, pronation is a natural movement of the foot that occurs during weight-bearing activities, but excessive pronation can lead to a number of musculoskeletal problems. Foot orthoses can control excessive pronation. Studies have shown that the use of foot orthoses can be effective in reducing pain and improving function and reduce the risk of developing lower leg injuries. It is important to consult with a qualified orthotist to determine the most appropriate type of foot orthosis.