We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is Pronation Syndrome?

M.C. Huguelet
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 5,254
Share

Pronation syndrome, also commonly referred to as overpronation, is the chronic rolling of one’s foot or feet inward during walking or running. Over time, pronation syndrome can cause a variety of problems, including pain and impaired posture. Those who suspect they may tend to overpronate should consult a physician. If pronation syndrome is identified, potential treatments can include wearing supportive shoes and using orthotic insoles.

The human foot and ankle is a complex machine, consisting of a large number of bones, joints, tendons, muscles, and ligaments that work in unison to make each step possible. In some people, however, the function of this “machine” is slightly irregular, and one or both feet tend to roll inward more than they should while walking or running. The chronic inward rolling of the foot or feet is commonly referred to as pronation syndrome or overpronation.

Left untreated, pronation syndrome can cause a number of problems. Perhaps the most common problem which arises from this condition is pain, which may affect the feet, ankles, lower or upper legs, hips, back, or even the neck and shoulders. In extreme cases, the postural imbalance caused by the constant inward rolling of the foot and, by extension, the leg, can cause the upper segment of the spine to naturally “compensate” by curving away from the affected foot. This in turn can cause further pain and permanently impaired posture.

Those who suffer from chronic pain throughout the body as well as those who notice that the soles of their walking or running shoes tend to show excessive wear on their inner edges may suffer from pronation syndrome. To confirm or rule out the condition, it is important to consult with an orthopedic physician. In order to determine whether an individual tends to overpronate, a physician may conduct a physical examination, analyze the individual’s gait as he walks on a treadmill, and ask questions about issues like pain and exercise routines.

Treatment for pronation syndrome may be as simple as wearing supportive shoes. Staff members at specialty shoe stores are often trained to help customers with gait issues choose shoes that will fit their specific support needs. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to purchase orthotic inserts, which may need to be specially made to conform to one’s foot. Generally, an orthopedic physician can provide further information about whether orthotics are a good treatment option, and how they can be obtained.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
M.C. Huguelet
By M.C. Huguelet
Cate Huguelet, a Chicago-based freelance writer with a passion for storytelling, crafts engaging content for a wide range of publications, including WiseGeek. With degrees in Writing and English, she brings a unique perspective and a commitment to clean, precise copy that resonates with readers. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
M.C. Huguelet
M.C. Huguelet
Cate Huguelet, a Chicago-based freelance writer with a passion for storytelling, crafts engaging content for a wide...
Learn more
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-pronation-syndrome.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.