Flat feet used to keep men out of military service. New research suggests that women who roll their feet inward as they walk are 50 percent more likely to suffer lower back pain. There were 1,930 people in the study. Their arches were measured to see whether they had flat feet or normal or high arches. They were also asked to walk across a pressure-sensitive mat that detected pronation. This is the movement of the foot from the outer edge rolling in as a person walks. Women who pronate were more likely to have back pain. The investigators suggest that orthotics might help relieve back pain that originates in the feet.
[Rheumatology, online Sept. 17, 2013]
We discussed common foot problems with podiatrists Bryan Markinson and Burton Schuler several years ago. Addressing these may help ease back discomfort. Tell your experience below.
