Having Flat Feet May Lead to Lower Back Pain

Flat FeetNew research is suggesting that having flat feet could be a leading cause of back pain in older individuals. Marian Hannan and other scientists at the Institute for Aging Research at Hebrew SeniorLife in Boston conducted a study where they asked participants to walk across a mat with sensors in it to determine the pattern of their steps.

They discovered that women who tend to over-pronate; which is an unhealthy way of walking common in people with flat feet. Participants strained their muscles more and were generally subject to more pain in their lower backs.

Having flat feet can lead to pain now and down the road. If you have questions about arch support, contact a chiropodist like Marz Hardy of Academy Foot and Orthotics. Hardy can suggest several options for flat feet or other foot and ankle conditions.

What are Flat Feet?

Flat feet are a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch never formed during growth.

Symptoms:

Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment:

Barefoot- studies show that those who grew up going barefoot, wearing less closed-toe shoes have more of an arch. This so happens because the strength and fullness of the arch increased.

Exercise- the will strengthen and stretch the area, helping with the Achilles tendon.

Shoe Inserts – orthopedists will often recommended patients with ankle supports. This reduces pain especially those who suffer from flat feet.

To learn more about flat feet, follow the link below.

Surgery – tendon surgery is an option that can help with any posterior tears. As with any surgery, it is important to speak with your doctor for professional advice.

To learn more about flat feet, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Toronto, ON.

Read more about Flat Feet.

PROFESSIONAL FOOT CLINIC

416-465-8737

Toronto, ON Chiropodist Academy Foot and Orthotic

752 BROADVIEW AVENUE Toronto, ON M4K 2P1 

Across from the Broadview Subway | Professional Family Foot Care