Back Pain
Low back pain comes in many forms and can have a multitude of causes. Although a Canadian Certified Pedorthist may not be the first health professional to seek with back pain, the feet can make an impact to lower back pain.
Symptoms of Back Pain
Pain while walking, during exercise or while performing specific tasks
Causes of Back Pain
Muscle strain
- Osteoarthritis
- Trauma
Pinched nerves
Poor foot mechanics
Improper footwear
Muscle imbalances
Leg length discrepancy (functional or structural)
Pedorthic Pointers for Patients
While low back pain is not normally caused solely from our feet, many patients are pleasantly surprised when they see an improvement in low back pain with the use of proper footwear and custom-made orthotics when used in conjunction with other treatment options.
Choosing proper footwear for your activity is important. Look for stable and cushioned shoes with sturdy heel counters (the back of the shoe) to control motion and provide shock absorption
When pain does occur, consult a Canadian Certified Pedorthist to determine if an over-the-counter device or a custom-made foot orthotic, along with appropriate footwear, will help the healing process and prevent the recurrence of problems
Avoid going barefoot or just wearing socks around the house as poor foot mechanics can aggravate the pain further if not controlled
Speak to your doctor or trusted health professional about core strengthening exercises