Pronation is a normal stage in the gait cycle. A child who neutrally pronates will initially strike the ground on the lateral side of the heel, as the child transfers their weight the foot rolls in a medial direction to ensure that the weight is distributed evenly. Neutral pronation is the most ideal, efficient type of gait pattern allowing the body to naturally absorb shock.
Overpronation refers to a pattern in which the foot rolls too far in a medial direction causing the body weight to be distributed unevenly across the metatarsus and cause excessive strain on the ankle, the knee and the hip. A child who overpronates does not absorb shock efficiently, leads to poor lower extremity alignment and can cause future orthopedic concerns.
With proper support via a simple insert or proper footwear, the alignment can be corrected and child can develop functional movement patterns efficiently and with the least amount of undue stress on their body.
Over time Overpronation can lead to: bunions, Hallux rigidus, Plantar fascitis, Metatarsalgia, chronic ankle sprains, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, tendonitis, Chondromalacia, Patellar-Femoral pain syndrome.
Treatment Ideas to come…