The way you walk can affect the health of your feet as well as other body parts, including the knees, hips, and back. When you take a step, the foot either rolls outward or inward. This is referred to as the running gait. When the foot rolls inward, it is termed pronation. When the foot rolls outward, it is termed supination. A certain amount of pronation and supination is considered normal. But if the foot rolls too far inward, called overpronation, the arch flattens out and causes damage to the tendons, ligaments, and muscles under the foot. In the case of supination, the foot rolls outward. Oversupination puts extra strain on the muscles and tendons in the ankle joint, causing instability. This action can result in an ankle sprain or ligament rupture. Overpronation and supination can also contribute to several other foot, heel, and ankle ailments, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and flat feet. If you have experienced symptoms connected to overpronation or supination, please consult a podiatrist who can prescribe custom orthotics that may help to correct the problem.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.