Foot Health FAQS: Can Shoes and Foot Health Impact Your Back?
Welcome back to Foot Health FAQs, where we tackle your burning questions about all things foot health. Today, we’re stepping into an intriguing topic: the connection between your shoes, your feet, and your back. Many people don’t realise just how much their footwear and foot health can influence the rest of their body—especially their spine.
In this article, we’ll explore whether your shoes and the health of your feet could be affecting your back and what that might mean for your overall wellbeing. Let’s get into it!
The connection between your feet and your back
Your feet are the base of the kinetic chain—a system that includes your joints, muscles, and bones, all working together to keep you moving. When your feet are out of alignment due to flat feet, lack of arch support, or improper footwear, it places undue pressure on your knees, hips, and lower back. Over time, this can result in lower back pain and strain on your spinal column.
For example, wearing high heels shifts your body weight forward, forcing your lower back into an exaggerated curve. This not only stresses your spine but also leads to tension in your muscles and joints. On the other hand, shoes with ample cushioning and good support help to absorb shock, reducing the impact on your back during activities like walking or running.
Common foot-related back issues
Poor foot health and the wrong type of footwear can lead to:
- Lower back pain caused by shoes lacking shock absorption or arch support.
- Increased stress on the spine from hard surfaces or extended periods of walking in unsupportive shoes.
- Muscle imbalances in the legs and back due to improper gait mechanics.
- Chronic pain linked to improper footwear like unsupportive casual sneakers or worn-out athletic shoes.
Even seemingly minor choices, such as wearing slippers for long periods or opting for heels over two inches, can disrupt your posture and lead to discomfort.
How to prevent foot-related back pain
The good news is that many foot-related back issues can be prevented with the right approach:
- Select shoes with good support: Look for options with proper arch support, extra cushioning, and a thicker sole for activities like long walks or running.
- Avoid extreme heel heights: Shoes with moderate heel height—around one to two inches—help maintain a natural posture without shifting your body weight forward.
- Invest in quality footwear for specific activities: Use running shoes for exercise, walking shoes for daily errands, and supportive office wear for long hours at work.
- Consider orthotics: Custom insoles can improve spinal alignment by correcting foot mechanics.
- Perform foot and back exercises: Simple stretches like calf stretches, ankle rotations, and exercises targeting your lower limb muscles can reduce strain and improve balance.
How Hurst Podiatry can help
At Hurst Podiatry, we understand the intricate connection between your feet and your spine. Whether you’re dealing with lower back pain, poor spinal alignment, or discomfort from the wrong type of footwear, our team is here to help. From expert gait assessments to custom orthotics, we offer tailored solutions to address your unique needs.
Don’t let your shoes or foot health impact your back. Book an appointment with Hurst Podiatry today and take the first step toward pain-free living—starting with your feet.
