Pronation Shoes

Pronation, the opposite of supination, refers to the inward rolling motion of the foot. A walking foot that pronates strikes down on its medial or inward (arch) side. This condition is most commonly associated with flexible, low arches or flat feet, but it’s not limited to this foot type. While some pronation is normal, excessive pronation can affect the ankles, knees, hips and back. Foot fatigue and arch pain are common symptoms.

To check for pronation, examine the wear patterns along the soles of your old shoes. Visible wear along the medial (inside arch and heel area) of the shoe is an indication of pronation.

Do you know your arch type? It’s as easy as stepping out of the shower or bath. With completely wet feet, simply step onto a piece of heavy paper that has been placed on a hard, flat surface. Step off and look at the prints left behind. See video below for directions.

Pronation becomes problematic when feet and ankles over-pronate. The arch actually flattens out, stretching the muscles, tendons and ligaments. Knees roll inward, creating a knocked-kneed misalignment. Unless addressed, over-pronation progressively worsens over time. The constant strain on tendons and ligaments makes them very flexible and elastic-like.

1. Begin with good shoes for pronation. Mild over-pronation can be corrected with good stability or motion control shoes that include medial posting. The denser posting material shores up and strengthens the medial side of the shoe and resists breakdown on the inside. New Balance ROLLBAR® technology biomechanically controls heel motion and supports a natural stride. New Balance offers an extensive lineup of pronation shoes including running shoes for pronation, along with walking and cross-training shoes for pronation.
   

2. Proper insoles for pronation like the Motion Control insole counteract mild-to-medium pronation by fortifying feet with proper foot alignment. The Stability insole, designed for medium-to-high arches, is another option. The New Balance Performance Orthotic insole, featuring a unique arch with medial posting, offers the highest degree of over-the-counter support. Don’t be surprised if it feels a bit different at first. This insole changes the alignment of the feet and ankles for healthier biomechanical movement.

3. Custom orthoses are recommended when over-the-counter solutions don’t provide relief. Our ABC certified pedorthists can fill your medical professional’s prescription for custom orthoses and support your recovery plan.

4. Orthaheel sandals for pronation are clinically proven to reduce pronation and offer easy-to-wear comfort.  Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association, these healthy sandals feature a built-in orthotic that reduces pronation and helps with heel pain, knee pain, back pain, and aching legs.

5. Exercise your feet to strengthen and condition these flexible muscles. Our Step Stretch is a convenient stretching system and can be used daily to improve muscle strength and endurance.