Toronto Chiropractor Discusses The Foot And Spine Connection

By Dr. Mark Halpern

The human body is a linkage system. If any link is dysfunctional, it will cause the breakdown of other parts within the system. We spend a large amount of our lifetime weight bearing (i.e.standing, walking, exercising, etc..), which creates many forces and strains on the body, starting at your feet. Your feet are your base of support, and where problems may start or be corrected.

Every time your foot hits the ground, the ground sends an equal or greater force back through the body (e.g. long periods of standing and walking would increase the force transmitted back to the body). The foot first has to cushion the impact, and then change to become solid enough to push off of. It does this with a unique motion pattern called pronation and supination, which allows the foot to accomplish both functions.

If there is any dysfunction with pronation (cushioning) or supination (push off), forces will be sent up the spine, causing improper muscle firing, joint strains, and instability (i.e weak knees). This can lead to chronic ankle strains, plantar fasciitis (foot pain), knee pain/dysfunction, hip pain, back pain, and headaches.

Recent studies have shown that as many as 80-90% of our population has some degree of foot dysfunction. The most common is flat feet, or over pronation. This may seem like a lot, but it is analogous to all the people who wear corrective eye wear. There are those who need strong prescriptions, and there are those who only need them for reading or driving. It is the same with your feet. There are different degrees of dysfunction, as well as different problems. The main idea is to correct the problem as early as possible and to avoid long-term strain on your body. Even small dysfunctions can create pain and discomfort over the long run.

The most effective treatment and prevention is the use of custom fit orthotics. Similar to prescription glasses because it is unlikely you would buy a generic pair of glasses. Orthotics are corrective devices which are made according to measurements taken from your feet. Their main purpose is to prevent the dysfunction, and support the arch of your feet. This will help keep your feet, knees, hips, and spine in alignment. The orthotics should be thin enough to fit in your shoes, and in most cases can be moved from one pair to the next.

Most people do not realize they have a dysfunction in their feet, and few health practitioners have ever checked for them. By the time most people find out, there is already a problem. That means that treatment will also include spinal adjustments to reduce any irritation on the spine, an exercise program ( feet, knees, hips , back, etc..), and a proper pair of shoes.

There is no need to go through life with mystery aches and pains. There is always an answer. If you have never had your foot function checked then it is time.

Dr. Mark Halpern is a Toronto Chiropractor. For more information, visit his website at http://www.TheTorontoChiropractor.com

categories: health,alternative medicine,health and fitness,chiropractic,chiropractor,foot,podiatry

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Tags: alternative medicine, chiropractic, chiropractor, foot, health, Health and Fitness, podiatry

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