Feet are often ignored when it comes to health care, but they can be an underlying
cause of many health problems and musculoskeletal conditions.
Your feet have three archers, the medial, lateral, and metatarsal arch. As we age, and
especially with weight gain, these arches tend to collapse. This causes stressful weight bearing
on all of the small joints in your feet and also sets the stage for plantar fasciitis and the
development of bunions. To keep your feet happy, custom-made arch supports or orthotics are
recommended for most people over 40 and for anyone that is overweight or has a job where
they are on their feet all day.
Pronation or decreased archers, also can gradually undermine the alignment and create
stress on your knee and hip joints. This can eventually lead to knee and hip joint degeneration
and arthritis.
So, be kind to your feet! Wear good shoes and get a computerized foot scan to evaluate
the need for custom-made shoe supports. Orthotics can prevent many painful conditions and
allow for an active lifestyle, which helps your overall health!
-Dr. Barbro Brost D.C.