Pronation
1. [noun] if you’ve never had a foot injury before, you might not be familiar with the terms “pronation” and “supination,” which refer to the foot’s natural inward and outward movements when walking or running. These movements enable the feet and ankles to move properly and absorb the forces imposed upon them without injury. Both pronation and supination are a critical (but often unacknowledged) component of your everyday life, enabling you to walk without pain or discomfort. Some people, however, may find that their feet pronate or supinate more than they should, leaving them with an awkward or painful gait. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between pronation and supination, and how to seek appropriate care. PRONATION From a medical perspective, pronation is the foot’s tendency to roll inward as it makes contact with the ground. For most people, the foot should roll inward by 15% or less, so that the entire foot briefly touches the ground before you push off from it. If the foot rolls inward at a greater degree, it can places excessive weight on the side of the foot, increasing your risk of injury. Overpronation can have a number of causes, but it’s often related to the shape of your foot’s arch. People with flat feet, for example, are much more likely to suffer from overpronation than people with higher arches. Wearing the wrong type of shoes can exacerbate overpronation, though it’s rarely a cause of it. Overpronation can make you more prone to chronic conditions like Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or bunions, particularly if you’re an avid runner
Source: https://nyboneandjoint.com/blog/a-podiatrists-guide-to-foot-pronation-vs-supination/
Frequently Asked Questions
How is pronation different from its counterpart movement during foot action?
Pronation is the inward roll of the foot upon ground contact, while its counterpart, supination, refers to the outward roll. This comparison highlights how each motion plays a distinct role in absorbing impact and ensuring effective force distribution during walking.
In everyday steps, how does controlled pronation contribute to comfortable walking?
During each step, controlled pronation allows the entire foot to make contact, providing a natural shock absorber. This movement distributes forces evenly as you walk, preventing excessive stress on any single part of the foot.
Can understanding the word origin of 'pronation' help remember this foot movement?
Yes, the term 'pronation' comes from the Latin word for forward or inclined. This etymology mirrors the inward roll of the foot, aiding in remembering that pronation involves the foot tilting inward during the gait cycle.