Did you know that it is not always a problem with your back that could be causing your back pain? Common presentations to Chiropractors can see issues with hips/knees and even feet causing pain to arise in the lower back. That is why on your initial assessment we take a detailed postural examination starting at the feet and not focussing just on the area of pain. Chiropractors are not only trained in treatment of spinal conditions but also are qualified to assess for various extremity conditions ranging from acute muscular injuries through to more complex structural conditions. One such condition is pes planus, more commonly known as flat feet or fallen arches, which is a very common cause for people to suffer recurring lower back pain.
The foot is usually an arch shape, with the middle part off the ground and the heel and ball of the foot touching the ground. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes the arch never develops properly or it might flatten towards the ground. This causes the foot and ankle to roll in and in turn puts significantly more pressure on the insides of your knees and hips and lower back. Sometimes chiropractic treatment combined with some lower body strengthening exercises and advice can be enough to manage the problem.
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However, sometimes symptoms can be ongoing and may need further treatment. This is where assessment is critical and the appropriate co management and referral with a podiatrist can really help. A combination of structural support from a podiatrist and addressing the biomechanical imbalances via your chiropractic treatment is an excellent two-pronged approach to getting you moving again.
So if you’re unsure of what your arches are doing simply ask us to have a look and we can make sure you have the right foot forward.
Source:
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/flat-feet
https://www.podiatry.org.au/foot-health-resources/gait-analysis
https://www.verywellfit.com/pronation-definition-3436329
