Foot Problems Can Cause Back Pain
The Surprising Connection Between Foot Problems and Back Pain
Did you know that some back problems are directly related to poorly functioning feet? By properly supporting and controlling foot function, your back pain could be considerably reduced.
If you've struggled with persistent back pain, this information could change everything.
The Missing Link in Back Pain Treatment
While physiotherapists and chiropractors excel at treating back problems, they aren't specialised foot experts like podiatrists. This gap in expertise often leads to foot-related issues going unnoticed or misdiagnosed, resulting in chronic back pain that persists despite treatment.
Anyone who has experienced back pain knows how truly debilitating it can be. This is precisely why consulting a podiatrist is crucial if you've dealt with long-term back problems that haven't improved with traditional treatments.
Professional Collaboration Matters
Forward-thinking physiotherapists and chiropractors who stay current with the latest treatment protocols understand the foot/back relationship and refer patients to podiatrists early in the treatment process.
Unfortunately, some practitioners attempt to treat all issues themselves or offer generic solutions like over-the-counter arch supports. What they're essentially saying is, "You have a foot problem, but I don't know how to properly treat it."
How Your Feet Impact Your Spine
Each step you take forces your feet to absorb up to three times your body weight. When your feet aren't stable, properly aligned, or functioning correctly, this affects your entire body—especially your spine.
Foot Types That Contribute to Back Pain
1. Low-arched feet (flat, over-pronated) When your feet are flat, they force your legs to rotate internally more than they should and tilt your pelvis forward. This pelvic tilt misaligns your spine, causing back muscles to tighten and your lower back to become painful and fatigued.
2. High-arched feet (over-supinated) These rigid feet can't properly absorb shock, creating instability when walking. People with high arches often experience not only back pain but also headaches and migraines after extended periods of walking.
3. Leg length discrepancy Having one leg longer than the other can significantly impact foot function and spinal alignment.
The Solution: Custom Orthotics
The most effective way to address these foot-related back problems is with custom-made foot supports (orthotics). Once your feet are properly stabilised, back pain that you've endured for years can be significantly reduced—sometimes eliminated entirely.
At Waikato Podiatry Clinic, we believe in collaborative care and work closely with your physiotherapist and chiropractor, recognising the crucial role foot function plays in your long-term back health.
Still in Pain?
Are you are feeling like you have tried everything but are still in pain?
Do you feel like you have seen every health practitioner you can about your back pain?
We have a track record of diagnosing and successfully treating cases that have previously proven difficult to resolve and we’d love to help you get back on your feet doing what you love.
