
Shoe Insoles for Lower Back Pain
Shoe inserts, or foot orthotics, are sometimes used to treat lower back pain in people who have some type of foot dysfunction or imbalance. The prevailing medical theory is that foot or ankle problems can cause lower back misalignment, or imbalances, which over time can lead to lower back pain.Custom-made foot orthotics are professionally made devices inserted into the shoe to correct an abnormal or irregular gait by realigning the ankle. Commonly prescribed to reduce certain types of foot and heel pain, these shoe inserts may also be prescribed to reduce lower back pain. Custom-made foot orthotics are professionally made devices inserted into the shoe to correct an abnormal or irregular gait by realigning the ankle. Commonly prescribed to reduce certain types of foot and heel pain, these shoe inserts may also be prescribed to reduce lower back pain.
Theory of Foot Orthotics for Lower Back Pain
Mechanical problems in the feet can negatively affect the way a patient walks or stands, which over time places strain on the lower back, causing pain.
Examples of common foot problems that can lead to an irregular posture and/or walking pattern include:
Plantar fasciitis, which can lead to chronic heel pain and/or arch pain
Nerve pain or numbness in the foot (such as neuromas and tarsal tunnel syndrome)
Bunions and bunionettes (big-toe versus little-toe side, respectively)
Excessive foot pronation (rolling in) or supination (rolling out)
In general, if a shoe insole can help the patient achieve a healthy posture and gait, this correction can allow the soft tissues in the lower back to heal, reducing pain. Theoretically, any problem with the foot or ankle resulting in a compromised posture or gait can lead to lower back pain, as well as possible pain in other weight-bearing joints, such as the hips, knees and ankles.
–Dr Ghanshyam Kakadiya ( MS Orthopaedics, DNB Ortho, FISS)
Orthopaedics & Spine Surgeon
