Pronation of the foot

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Pronation of the foot refers to the natural movement of the foot that occurs during foot landing while walking or running. Pronation also occurs during standing, and in this case, it is the amount that the foot rolls inward toward the arch. It is the natural way that the human body absorbs shock.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "pronation" comes from the Latin "pronatus," which means "to lean forward or incline."

Types of Pronation[edit | edit source]

There are three types of foot pronation: normal pronation, overpronation, and underpronation (or supination).

  • Normal Pronation: The foot lands on the outside of the heel, then rolls inward (pronates) to absorb shock and support body weight.
  • Overpronation: This occurs when the foot rolls inward more than the ideal fifteen percent, which can cause the foot and ankle to struggle to stabilize the body, and the ligaments and muscles under the foot are strained as they are overused.
  • Underpronation (or Supination): This happens when the foot rolls inward less than the ideal fifteen percent, which results in insufficient impact reduction at landing, and thus, greater forces being transmitted to the bones and tendons of the lower leg.

Related Terms[edit | edit source]

  • Supination: It is the opposite of pronation and refers to the outward roll of the foot during normal motion.
  • Gait: It is the pattern of movement of the limbs of animals, including humans, during locomotion over a solid substrate.
  • Orthotics: These are devices that are worn inside shoes to correct biomechanical foot issues such as problems with how you walk, stand, or run.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Pronation of the foot Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD