FOOT ASSESSMENT IN LAKE MACQUARIE

COMMON FOOT TYPES

Despite their size, feet are highly complex body parts. Each foot contains 26 bones, along with numerous tendons, ligaments and muscles that control its movement. Your feet work together to carry your entire body weight daily, acting as both the support for your weight and points of balance as you take steps.

Because of the complexity of your feet, their specific shape can affect how your walk. Arch height, heel shape and positioning of the toes are some of the most variable features of your feet that impact your stride. Certain variations are more common than others and can be compensated for with the right orthotics, shoes and corrective exercises.

If you have any questions about foot types and how this relates to foot pain, do not hesitate to get in touch with our team. We also have more information below regarding the most common foot types.

NORMAL FEET

The average foot has a comfortable motion when walking. As you place your foot down for each step, it naturally lands on the outside of the heel, rolling inward as you move forward. This is a neutral gait that doesn’t lead to any specific medical problems. If you have normal feet, you’re less likely to suffer injuries relating to pronation or walking motion.

FLAT FEET

A flat foot is a common way of referring to a foot with a low arch. With a low arched foot, the biggest concern is often the overpronation of the foot as you walk, meaning an inward rotation of your foot as you step.

Low arched feet are less stable. The heels tend to receive more weight than intended, leading to pain in the heels and arches over time. Specialty orthotics can help you correct your stride, lower the risk of injury and reduce the chance of developing aches and pain later in life.

HIGH ARCHED FEET

When your arch has a more distinct curve, it’s called a high arched foot. This shape of foot is not as effective at absorbing to shock of movement, leading to under pronation, or the foot rolling outwards rather than inwards as you step.

With a high arch, you need extra support in the arch of your shoes. Supportive orthotics or specialty shoes can help to correct the issue and provide the support you need to walk, run or exercise comfortably again. If you are unsure about your foot type, you can book an initial consultation with Lake Macquarie and James Pascoe Podiatry.

FOOT SUPPORT OPTIONS

Most feet don’t fit perfectly into one category or another. They may not even match each other exactly. The most important thing you can learn from knowing your foot type is how to compensate for any irregularities in your walk.

Depending on the exact shape of your foot and the severity of the problems that shape causes for you, various support options are available, from footwear recommendations to orthoses.

CUSTOM ORTHOTICS & ORTHOSES

For any feet that need the extra support, custom orthotic inserts and orthoses pieces are a great option for long-term correction and risk reduction. Because we customise them to your feet, these supports give you an option that’s wearable daily.

Lake Macquarie and James Pascoe Podiatry can help you determine your foot type. We also identify whether any action is necessary to help you retain your good health for years to come.

We can prescribe custom orthotics and orthoses when appropriate, while also recommending lifestyle changes and exercise routines which can make a difference for you.