Don't get caught flat footed - how over-pronation may just be a dysfunctional model

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Conventional wisdom suggests flat or over-pronating feet require external support.
• In contrast, other body structures typically benefit from limited support, primarily during acute rehabilitation.
• The principle of supporting biological structures long-term often leads to weakening.

Purpose of the Study:

• To question the established practice of arch support for flat feet.
• To explore the potential dysfunctionality of arch support models based on joint stability principles.
• To introduce a novel test and conditioning exercise for foot assessment.

Main Methods:

• Review of the principle that long-term support weakens biological structures.
• Application of Panjabi's model of joint stability to foot biomechanics.
• Development and presentation of a specific test and conditioning exercise for foot evaluation.

Main Results:

• The concept of arch support may represent a dysfunctional model for foot care.
• A proposed test suggests that "flat feet" may not be a structural issue but rather a sign of de-conditioning.
• The presented exercise aims to condition the foot, potentially improving its function.

Conclusions:

• The long-held belief in supporting flat feet warrants re-evaluation.
• Foot de-conditioning, not inherent flatness, may be the primary issue.
• Further research and clinical application of the presented test and conditioning methods are suggested.