Overpronation (feet that roll in)
Overpronation means your foot rolls inward too far and your arch flattens excessively each time it takes your weight. It places stress on the tissues and ligaments of the foot and may lead to pain in the arch, heel, shin or knee. Fiona assesses how you walk in an initial consultation from $100.
What overpronation is
Pronation is the natural inward rolling and flattening of the foot as it makes contact with the ground. It is part of the body's shock absorption and lets the foot adapt to the contour of the ground. Overpronation happens when the arch collapses too far during weight bearing. Too much pronation flattens the arch excessively, placing stress and pressure on the tissues and ligaments of the foot. The timing of the pronation during the walking cycle matters as much as the amount of it, which is why an assessment by a podiatrist is useful.
Symptoms
Overpronation itself may be painless, but it can lead to a number of injuries, especially in runners. Common problems linked to it include:
- Arch pain and heel pain, including heel spurs
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shin splints and knee pain
- Achilles tendon problems
- Bunions and a stiff big toe
- Pain in the ball of the foot, and lower back pain
Causes and risk factors
The arch of the foot can disrupt the way you walk, and this architecture is largely inherited. A foot that naturally sits flatter tends to collapse further when it bears weight. Runners and people who spend long hours on their feet place repeated load through the arch, which can expose the tendency. Poorly fitting footwear can add to the problem and lead to further foot issues.
Treatment at the clinic
Fiona assesses your foot posture and the way you walk, then explains what she finds in plain language. Treatment may include custom orthotics from $650, which covers the biomechanical assessment, fitting and a review appointment, or semi-custom orthotics from $450 including the biomechanical assessment and fitting. Footwear advice, strapping and taping, and stretching and strengthening programs are part of the options she uses. Strapping may suit acute cases or act as a first line of treatment. She can refer you for X-ray, ultrasound or MRI when needed, and back to your GP when needed.
Looking after it at home
Wear footwear that fits properly, with a firm heel counter for control and stability. Check your shoes regularly, because worn or loose-fitting shoes can lead to further foot problems. Stretching helps loosen tight muscles and ligaments and may reduce strain. Strengthening exercises can improve foot function.
When to see a podiatrist
See a podiatrist when foot, arch, heel, shin or knee pain persists or keeps returning, or when pain starts to affect the way you walk. Overpronation responds best to assessment before injuries build up. A GP is the right person for knee or lower back pain that involves swelling, numbness or a serious injury.
Questions
What is a pronated foot?
A pronated foot is one that rolls inward and flattens more than normal when it bears weight. Some pronation is natural and helps the foot absorb shock.
Do I overpronate when I run?
Runners with low arches or flat feet commonly overpronate, and repeated load can bring on arch pain, shin splints or heel pain. Fiona can assess your foot posture and walking pattern to check.
What helps feet that roll in?
Orthotics, supportive footwear with a firm heel counter, strapping and strengthening exercises are common options. Fiona chooses between these after a biomechanical assessment.