Common Biomechanical Problems

Excessive Pronation [flat foot] or Supination [high arch]

Usually congenital but may be due to an injury such as a leg fracture which may cause a differing of leg length. Feet will either pronate or indeed supinate in an effort to correct this disparity and provide an easier gait.

Pronation and supination must be present in 'normal' gait to facilitate walking but an excess of either movement can lead to problems such as corns, callus, bunions [hallux valgus], arch pain, plantar fasciitis, foot fatigue, Tendo achilles pain, knee, hip and back problems.

It not uncommon for people to suffer lower limb and back problems due to the abnormal action of the foot during standing, walking or running.

The treatment for these conditions can vary but is usually in the form of advice regarding footwear through to the prescription of an orthotic to control the excess pronation or supination by holding the foot in as near to its ideal position whilst standing, walking or running.

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Bunions [Hallux Valgus]

Normally, the big toe points straight ahead, but in this condition, it curves towards the other toes and the joint can become swollen and tender, making walking difficult. The other toes become deformed and develop corns.

Some people are more likely to form bunions than others either due to genetic predisposition and/or as the result of their gait. Wearing inappropriate footwear may exascerbate the condition.Once a bunion has developed, further damage may be limited by wearing orthotics and more accomodative footwear, which will prevent excessive pressure on the joint.

A podiatrist may suggest protective pads to ease pressure on the joint, shoe alterations, or orthotics (specialised insoles) to help foot function more efficiently, or an appliance which fits over over the joint for protection.

Custom made, casted or semi-bespoke orthotics are available at this practice and may alleviate seemingly unrelated symptoms such as ankle, knee, hip, and lower back pain.

In some cases, the podiatrist may advise surgery to realign the big toe, fixing it in a corrected position.

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