Table of Content:
Will Orthotics Help Knee Pain?
Orthotics are meant to modify and adjust the positioning of your foot so that your muscles and ligaments are protected from fatigue and strain. So, will orthotics help with knee pain? This is a question that we receive quite often in the clinic.
In short,
it depends on the underlying cause of your knee pain and the degree to which it is related to your foot. If it is due to a misalignment of the foot (e.g. overpronation) or a foot deformity, then orthotics may be able to help. However, if the knee pain is due to a condition outside of the foot, such as tension in the hamstrings and/or quadriceps, then an orthotic may not be the best treatment option.
Knee pain due to overpronation
When you walk, run, or jump, your heel will contact the ground first, followed by a natural inward rotation (pronation) of the foot as you propel forwards. If, however, your feet overpronate, your arches will collapse and flatten. This generates a misalignment of your foot and ankle that can lead to pain and irritation. If this misalignment continues up the leg to the knees, overpronation can also facilitate knee aches. Pain is usually centralized around the kneecap and can occur on either side.
How we treat it
To treat knee pain linked to overpronation (also termed “flat feet”), we correct the factors of the foot that are causing the misalignment—this is where orthotics can come in. They support the foot, reorienting it into a more neutral position. The lower leg and knee are also guided into more neutral positions that reduce stress on the knee and its surrounding structures.
If you are currently experiencing knee pain and would like to learn more, or you have questions regarding orthotics, please feel free to comment below. You can also contact us at docpods.com.au !