Your heel swings from side to
side as your foot moves. When the heel swings correctly, your foot can flatten and regain
its arch as you walk. But if your heel swings too much, your foot may flatten more than it
should. Over time, such excess movement may cause foot problems.
| When the heel hits the
ground, its outer edge touches first. Soft tissues
(muscles, tendons and ligaments) relax. Your foot is able to flatten, adapt to uneven
surfaces, and absorb the shock of touchdown. |
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During midstance, your heel is below the anklebone, and the front and back of your foot are
aligned. Your foot easily bears your weight. |
| As the heel lifts, it swings slightly to the inside. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments tighten.
Your foot regains its arch, allowing your toes to push your weight off the ground. |
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| Too Much Movement Causes
Strain! When your
foot flattens too much (overpronation), some bones are forced to support too much weight.
The muscles pull harder on these areas, making it more difficult for tendons and ligaments
to hold bones and joints in place. Over time, you may develop swelling or pain on the
bottom of your foot or near the heel. Or a bony bump (bunion) may form at your toe joint.
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When your foot flattens
too much, the ankle and heel do not align during midstance.
The foot strains under your body's weight. |
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