Foot Pronation: Understand this important term and how it affects your feet and gait

If you're looking for ways to improve your gait and overall physical health, it's important to understand how your feet function when you walk. Foot pronation is one of the most important factors that affect the way your feet touch the ground and determine your gait. In this article, we take an in-depth look at what foot pronation is, how it works, and how it affects your health.

What is Foot Pronation?

Foot pronation is the movement of the foot where the arch moves inward when walking. This means that the outside of the foot touches the ground, carrying the entire weight of the body in one point. Pronation is a normal part of gait and helps absorb shock and improve stability while walking.

How Does Foot Pronation Affect Your Health?

While a certain amount of pronation is normal when walking, excessive pronation can cause problems for your feet, ankles, knees, hips and back. Excessive pronation can lead to strain and disruption of the normal arch of the foot, which can lead to injury and pain. It's important to know how much pronation you have when walking and how to manage it to avoid injury.

How can you manage excessive pronation?

There are a number of ways you can manage excessive pronation and prevent injury. One of the most effective ways is by wearing shoes with good support and cushioning. Also, specially designed orthotic insoles and arch supports can help improve foot posture and control pronation.

It is also important to exercise and stretch regularly to keep your muscles and joints flexible and prevent injuries. In addition, it is important to analyze your gait pattern and adjust it if necessary, so that you avoid excessive pronation. If you experience any injuries or pain, it is recommended that you see a doctor or physiotherapist for diagnosis and treatment. Often custom-made insoles, for example from Soles, can also offer a solution.

In summary, foot pronation is an important term to understand if you want to improve your gait and health. It is normal to have a certain amount of pronation when walking, but excessive pronation can lead to problems and injuries. By wearing good shoes, doing exercises and analyzing your gait, you can manage excessive pronation and prevent injuries.