Foot Problems To Watch Out For If You're An Over-Pronator

Have you ever noticed, or been told, that your ankles collapse inward as you walk and run? If so, you're an over-pronator — someone whose ankles pronate, or collapse inward, too much. If you aren't someone who walks a lot or spends much time on your feet, this may never have any consequences. But if you do walk a lot, run, or participate in sports, you may notice that, over time, your over-pronation makes you prone to certain foot and ankle injuries. Here are three such injuries to watch out for.

Peroneal Tendonitis

The peroneal tendon is a tendon that runs along the outside of your ankle. As your ankle bends inward, excess strain is placed on the peroneal tendon. Over time, this tends to lead to chronic pain and swelling. You may notice that the inside of your ankle is puffy and that you feel a pulling sensation in this area when you first start walking or running.

Peroneal tendonitis is sometimes manageable with rest and ice. However, your podiatrist will likely recommend wearing some sort of orthotics or inserts that support the inside of your foot and reduce strain on the tendon over time. You should notice that the pain dissipates within a few weeks or months of wearing the orthotics and taking it easy.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel to your forefoot. This inflammation is caused by the tissue being overly stretched out each time you step predominantly on the inside of your foot. The soreness tends to be really bad when you first get out of bed, and it eases throughout the day.

When plantar fasciitis is caused by overpronation, it can be tough to treat. Many patients end up needing a cortisone injection in the arch of their foot. Your doctor can also show you some exercises to stretch and strengthen this area, and they can prescribe a brace for you to wear on your foot at night.

Metatarsal Stress Fractures

Because your ankle falls inward as you stride, you tend to put more pressure on the metatarsal bones towards the inside of your foot. If you are a serious runner or hiker, this may cause you to develop a stress fracture in one of these bones. Stress fractures cause aches and pains in the forefoot. There will be a specific spot that, if touched, feels really tender and sharply painful.

Your doctor will likely have you wear a walking boot, take pain relievers, and rest for at least 6 weeks after being diagnosed with a stress fracture. Long-term, wearing shoes or orthotics that reduce your pronation will keep additional fractures from occurring.

If you're an over-pronator, then you need to keep an eye out for these injuries. A foot doctor can help you diagnose and treat these conditions so that you can continue with less pain and worry.