The Connection Between Knee Pain and Poor Foot Alignment and Biomechanics

Information  •  Thu 2 Feb 2023

Knee pain is a common issue faced by individuals who engage in physical activities such as running, jumping, and walking. While knee pain can be caused by several factors, including injury, arthritis, or overuse, poor foot alignment and biomechanics are also contributing factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore the correlation between knee pain and poor foot alignment and biomechanics and what you can do to alleviate your knee pain.

Poor Foot Alignment

The alignment of your feet is vital in maintaining proper biomechanics and avoiding knee pain. When your feet are misaligned, it can cause an imbalance in the body, leading to knee pain. For example, if you have flat feet, you may overpronate, which means your feet roll inward excessively when you walk or run. Overpronation puts a lot of strain on your knees, causing them to ache and become sore.

Moreover, your feet may supinate if you have high arches, meaning they roll outward excessively. Supination also puts excessive strain on your knees and can lead to knee pain. Proper foot alignment can help alleviate knee pain and prevent future injuries in both cases.

Biomechanics

Biomechanics refers to the way your body moves and how each part of your body works together. Poor biomechanics can lead to a variety of problems, including knee pain. When your body’s movements are not in balance, it can put excessive stress on your knees, leading to pain and discomfort.
For example, if you have a misaligned gait, it can lead to knee pain. If your gait is not aligned correctly, you may put more pressure on one knee than the other, causing it to ache and become sore. Additionally, if your muscles and joints are not working together coordinated, it can cause knee pain and other problems.

What You Can Do to Alleviate Knee Pain?

If you’re experiencing knee pain and think it may be related to poor foot alignment or biomechanics, it’s essential to seek the advice of a podiatrist. Our podiatrists at My Sports Podiatrist, located in Melbourne Docklands and Ascot Vale, are experts in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle problems, including knee pain.

To alleviate knee pain, our podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics and shoe inserts that provide support and cushioning for your feet. Orthotics can help improve foot alignment and biomechanics, reducing the strain on your knees and alleviating pain. Additionally, our podiatrists may recommend exercises to help strengthen the muscles around your knee and improve your gait, reducing the risk of knee pain.

In conclusion, knee pain, poor foot alignment, and biomechanics are closely related. By seeking the advice of a podiatrist, you can receive a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to alleviate your knee pain. If you’re in Melbourne Docklands or Ascot Vale, visit My Sports Podiatrist for expert advice and treatment for your foot and ankle problems.