Flat Feet & Leg Pain

Every day people all over the world are born with flat feet. Many are extremely active, running, playing soccer and doing heavy labor. This begs the question, how are some individuals with flat feet perfectly fine, even when active, and others get a lifetime of foot and leg pain? First we must look at how a normal foot works as opposed to a troubled one. Flat foot, the opposite of high arch, often is misidentified as fallen arches or broken arches. Actually a flat foot is a structural abnormality in which the foot bones maintain a low angle, thereby giving a appearance of an absent or low arch area. Asics are known for their GEL-cushioning system which provides extra cushioning and impact control for the heal and forefoot. The GT-2170 is specifically designed for the worst overpronation problems. They provide guidance control, midfoot stabilizer and memory foam cushioning in addition to the GEL-cushioning system. Reviews show they are superior in the cushioning department for sure. The Asics Gel-1170 is another choice in 2012 for overpronation. It contains firm foam in the midsole for extra arch support. One reason that foot tattoos are extremely painful and tedious is due the fact that the skin is thinner on the top of the foot and there is little space between the layers. Orthopedic shoes were developed to realign the back to a normal position where no pain or discomfort are experienced. This type of footwear is often recommended for those suffering from flat feet. Footwear of this kind is made in such a way that the instep and part of the bed of the shoe are raised. They can be purchased in stores or custom made according to the directions of an orthopedic specialist. Once this 'pronation phase' is complete, the foot begins to roll-out or supinate slightly, creating a more stable foot position and allowing the lower extremity to achieve maximum efficiency when pushing off. Patients need to determine whether the feet (or sometimes just one foot) is flat due to its own problem or whether something else is going on. Since the foot can cause rotational issues all the way up the leg, the same rotations at the hip can cause the foot to flatten. It is extremely important to know if the foot is causing the problem or if the foot is the result of a problem further up the leg. Through thorough analysis, perhaps including gait analysis, a physical therapist or other health professional should be able to determine this answer for you. Treatment Way back in September 1998, I went for a trip with some of my colleagues of the University in Tokyo suburbs to attend Japanese Physics Society Conference in Okinawa. We did a lot of sightseeing and attended only a few conference sessions! While we were lazing along one of the beaches in Okinawa, I saw the feet of my hubby (then a colleague) and was really surprised and shocked to see his flat foot. Until then I had never come across anyone having flat feet. As a matter of fact, my parents also never came across any person having flat feet until they met hubby. For optimum comfort you should choose the toe shape that is most compatible with your foot shape. Rounded or slightly boxy toes provide the most room and comfort and should be chosen by anyone with foot trouble. A pointier toe may be more fashionable in some cases, but do not choose this style if it causes you foot pain. With today's technology men's running shoes for flat feet are designed to provide all of the features necessary to promote a smooth and safe ride for today's runner. When looking for effective running shoes for flat feet it is key to look for shoes that offer motion control, support and stability.