Did you know that your back pain could be related to foot or posture problems? Podiatry plays a key role in the assessment and treatment of these pains, especially when they are caused by asymmetry in the feet, legs or joints. Indeed, walking is a naturally symmetrical process. As soon as this symmetry is compromised, pain can appear not only in the feet and ankles, but also in the knees, hips, and back.
Here are some examples of disorders that can upset this balance and lead to back pain:
- Difference in length between the legs (leg shorter than the other), often undiagnosed, that affects weight distribution.
- Asymmetrical arch collapse of the foot, which unbalances posture and gait and creates a functional difference in the length of the legs, i.e. one functions as if one leg were shorter than the other even though both legs are of comparable length.
- Osteoarthritis of the ankle or big toe, especially in cases of asymmetry, limiting mobility and causing postural compensation. For example, if the big toe joint of only one of the two feet has a lot of osteoarthritis, the normal flow of the step will be compromised, which will affect the symmetry of the gait necessary for its efficiency and comfort.
At Médecine podiatrique du Plateau in Hull, Aylmer, Gatineau, we offer an in-depth gait analysis to identify these postural disorders and asymmetries. In addition, our X-ray of the feet (X-rays) allows us to better understand the condition of the skeleton of your feet, bones and joints and to detect any problems that may be contributing to your current problems or future problems. Once the podiatric diagnosis has been made, we offer tailor-made solutions, such as foot orthotics, injections, surgeries, adapted shoes, exercises, physiotherapy or chiropractic treatments to restore balance and relieve your pain.
If you suffer from back pain but don’t know its origin, consulting a podiatrist in Gatineau can offer you a fresh perspective and concrete solutions. In collaboration with other professionals, including chiropractors whose scope of practice includes spinal alignment assessment, your podiatrist can help you relieve your pain.
Take the first step towards relief. Call 819-800-1212 to schedule your first assessment.
