Over-Pronation (fallen arches) explained...

The true 'flat foot' is very rare. In fact, less than 5% of the population have flat feet with no arch present whatsoever.

The majority of us have a normal arch (or somewhat low arch) and only 5-10% have a high arch!

However, most people with a 'normal- to-low' arch actually suffer from 'over-pronation' during walking, running and standing. This means the foot may appear normal and a clear arch is present under the foot, especially when sitting down...

This siutation changes with weight bearing; with every step we take the arches collapse and the ankles roll inwards. This is called over-pronation. Pronation itself is not wrong as we need to pronate and supinate as part of our gait. Pronation (rolling in) acts as a shock absorbing process and supination (rolling out) helps to propel our feet forward.

Over-pronation occurs when we pronate too deep and for too long, not giving the foot a chance to 'recover' and supinate.

Therefore, over-pronation hampers our natural walking pattern, causing an imbalance and leading to wear and tear in other parts of the body, with every step we take!

high arch, normal to low arch and flat foot
Whether you have a true flat foot or have a normal arch but suffer from over-pronation (like 70% of the population) in both cases your poor walking pattern may contribute to a range of different complaints. Especially with age, poor aligment of the feet will cause very common conditions such as Heel Pain or Knee Pain.

Over-pronation has different causes. Obesity, pregnancy, age or repetitive pounding on a hard surface can weaken the arch leading to over-pronation. Over-pronation is also very common with athletes, especially runners and most of them nowadays use orthotics inside their shoes.
It is estimated that 'over-pronation' affects over 70% of the Irish population and contributes to a range of common foot complaints, as well as many other common conditons such as shin splints, aching legs, knee pain - even back pain!
The most effective treatment solution for over-pronation is to wear an orthotic shoe insert. Footlogics orthotics correct over-pronation, thereby providing natural, lasting pain relief to many aches and pains.
Recommended orthotics to correct over-pronation: Footlogics Casual or Comfort