It is very important to keep your feet aligned properly. A long day of walking incorrectly can place excessive stress on your entire body. Arch supports are thin strips of metal or plastic. Customized supports are made using a foot casting system. When designed for your individual foot, they provide the necessary support.
As the foot cycles through the walking or running gait, it rotates. This rotational movement is called pronation. The lateral portion of the foot strikes the ground first, it then rolls in as the foot continues the movement. Three types of pronation include overpronation, neutral and underpronation.
As we follow through in our steps, the foot rolls to redistribute the weight. Depending on the stiffness of the shoe and the quality of the arch support, the foot is kept aligned so that it moves the weight correctly. Efficient redistribution of weight keeps the foot feeling more relaxed and reduces stress on it.
Overpronation is caused when the weight is not properly distributed. As we strike the ground with the outer part of our foot, the foot rolls in and down too much, and can cause undue stress. Keeping the motion of the foot guided so that it moves correctly reduces the stress and gives us a livelier step.
Supination, also known as underpronation, means the foot stays too rigid and does not roll enough. There is no shock absorption when this happens, and it is like walking with stiff legs. The body fights to take each step, resulting in painful movements.
Neutral pronation is the most ideal movement of the foot. It means that it is moving the correct amount to provide the most efficient use of the energy as it is distributed through the foot.
Additional stress points for either under or overpronation include the ankles, legs, knees and back. A multitude of issues involving pain can be avoided if the feet are kept aligned. Correct support is very important for general health.
Products that are designed with support, whether medically prescribed orthotics or purchased off the shelf, are important for foot health and can shorten a long day of work. Your feet will feel more rested at the end of the day when wearing the correctly designed footwear or when adding an orthotic.
Regardless of the type of foot issues you have, arch supports can help. If the doctor has recommended an orthotic, it is designed to fit the shape of your foot for perfect movement. Arch supports are available that are orthotic quality. They form to the foot shape and retain rigidity so that the foot is guided through the movement correctly.
Arch Supports
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