The Foot - Did you know?

Author - Melissa Folly

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The Foot - Did you know?

The foot can be split into three parts FOREFOOT, MIDFOOT and REARFOOT.

The foot has 26 bones, 20 muscles, 19 joints, 3 arches and 2 sesamoid bones - Now there’s a lot that could go wrong!

The foot’s components and structure are vital in determining the distribution of the ground forces that are absorbed by the body when walking and running.

When the foot is moving well the ground reactive forces translate through the foot into the knee - hip - pelvis - lower back and up into the rest of the body.

If there is an error in the foot mechanics the forces absorbed by the body can become more dominant in certain areas. If the foot, ankle and knee aren’t absorbing the force correctly for example, this will place excessive pressure onto the hip and lower back and can present itself as pain and discomfort in these areas, leaving the foot and knee pain free!

To prevent problems occurring in the foot...

Wear supportive shoes that fit well, avoid walking barefoot, keep your foot skin healthy and nails cut neatly. If you develop pain or discomfort get it checked out - usually a few simple tests and observation can identify any errors in the foot mechanics and often simple manual treatment can be enough to restore the foot (and therefore body) back into balance.

Call me for more information or advice on 01600 890 282 or visit www.shireschiropracticclinic.co.uk.

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