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Can Arch Supports Help Pronation?

Pronation refers to a normal function of the foot where the arch flattens down toward the ground as the foot rolls from the outer edge of the heel to the inside of the ball of the foot while walking or running. However, proper arch support is necessary to ensure the foot doesn't overpronate, which means it rolls too far inward and causes the arch to sink too low. Overpronation can lead to foot, leg and back pain.

  1. Overpronation

    • When your arch falls too close to the ground, it abnormally stretches the muscles and tendons of the foot and calf. This can lead to the common heel pain known as plantar faciitis as well as heel spurs. The unnatural gait that occurs when your foot rolls too far inward can also lead to hip and back pain as the spine and hip bones eventually bounce out of alignment. Arch supports do just what the name implies: offer support for your arches to keep them from falling too low.

    How Arch Supports Help

    • Proper arch supports provide a strong but cushioned surface to help the arch move normally during walking and running. Many custom orthotics are made of metal, but have a cushioned top to allow some arch flexibility. The arch supports only allow the foot's arch to sink a small amount -- not low enough to cause muscle or tendon damage.

    Heel Cups

    • Many arch supports are full-foot orthotics that include heel cups. Heel cups help hold the foot more stable while walking and provide extra cushioning for people suffering from heel pain. These full-foot arch support orthotics are ideal for people suffering from heel spurs or plantar faciitis. Not only do they offer the foot the necessary support, but they provide a softer surface while the heel problems are healing.

    Insoles

    • Most insoles found at drug and discount stores do not offer arch support. Cushioned insoles can help reduce foot and heel pain, but they typically don't offer the arch support necessary to reverse muscle and tendon damage in your feet. There are some over-the-counter arch supports available, so ask your podiatrist which one he would recommend instead of buying an insole that won't help your foot problems. Your podiatrist may recommend a custom orthotic instead, which is a full-foot arch support that is custom-made to fit your foot and designed to alleviate pain and gait abnormalities.

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