Evaluation & Treatment of Overpronation in Runners - By: Dr Kenneth Shapiro

Pronation is a natural movement that occurs in gait when the arch flattens upon weight bearing. This motion allows the foot to absorb the weight of the body without causing undo stress & shock on the foot, ankle and leg structures.

During pronation, the outside edge of the heel makes contact with the ground. The heel rolls inward causing the arch to "loosen up" and stretch out. As the body moves forward, the arch serves as a "spring board" to absorb the shock of weight bearing. As the person moves forward the arch increases in height as the ball of the foot bends in preparation for "toe off". The foot moves through the air until the heel strikes the ground again, and the gait cycle repeats itself.

When an athlete overpronates, several things break down. Usually the center or inner heel makes contact with the ground instead of the outside edge. Due to the lack of rolling of the heel, there is less shock absorbing ability. The arch does not have the stability to absorb the stress of weight bearing and collapses, causing problems such as shin splints, metatarsalgia,bunions, hammertoes and plantar fasciitis. Hip and back pain can also occur due to inadequate shock absorption. Since the arch is unable to absorb most of the shock of weight bearing, the forces are transmitted elsewhere.

There are many causes of overpronation. Congenital flat feet is the most common cause of overpronation. Obesity, pregnancy, diabetes, neuropathy are other medical conditions that can cause or aggravate overpronation. Barefoot activities & poor fitting shoes and poor conditioning increase the stress on the arch and can potentiate overpronation. Overpronation symptoms are more common with runners due to the continuous pounding that occurs with prolonged running.

The diagnosis of overpronation can be done simply by checking your shoes, and the wear pattern of the heels and forefoot. Check to make sure that both shoes wear symmetrically. If one shoe wears down on the outside, and one on the inside, a limb length discrepancy may be the cause. If both heels wear on the center or inside, then you may be overpronating. Your doctor or therapist will examine your feet and determine if you are overpronating.

Treatment of overpronation usually involves modification of your shoegear, arch supports and orthotics. A well qualified running store can also be a great source of information on running shoes that are indicated for overpronators.

Many running shoe manufacturers make shoes specific for overpronators. These shoes are usually more rigid around the counter of the shoe (around the heel), to help stabilize the heel during heel strike. They also may provide additional padding and support in the arch to prevent it from collapsing. By stabilizing the heel at heel strike, and supporting the arch during the midstance phase of gait, the foot is a more stable structure, that can withstand the stress of running and prevent overuse.

Please consult with your doctor,podiatrist, chiropractor or therapist if you are suffering from pain in the lower extremity while running.

About the Author

Dr. Kenneth Shapiro is one of the technical advisors for The Running Shoe Superstore, and Adidasandmore , online running shoe stores. The Running Shoe Superstore offers a wide range of running shoes and running gear from companies such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok and New Balace at guaranteed low prices. Free Shipping and 10% off when you buy now!

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Dr-Kenneth-Shapiro/46668

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