Pronation - Foot Problems Message Board

dancergal19 · 07-24-2008, 12:49 PM

Hi All,

I am hoping some of you can help me with pronation questions. I had bunion surgery last year and since then I am much more careful about how I take care of my body, especially my feet. I've also noticed some mild, occasional plantar fasciitis since my surgery and want to prevent it from becoming a regular problem.

My podiatrist told me that I have hyper-flexible, flat feet. I think that means that I underpronate? But at the same time, as a dancer, my feet tend to roll in, which would indicate overpronation. So I'm not sure which type I am.

I also am a runner and am prone to shin splints. I want to get a new pair of sneakers (I currently have asics which I love so I plan on buying another pair) but I'm not sure if I should get sneakers for over or underpronation.

Any help would be appreciated!! I am contemplating making an appointment with my Pod to get his advice but that seems silly to go see him just to ask about running shoes.

FYI, I also wear orthotics in my asics (and take out the insole) and I'm not sure if that affects how the shoe is supposed to function?

Thanks in advance for your help

forevergimpy · 07-24-2008, 02:03 PM

I'm not sure if this is the case but I wonder if your hyper-mobility is causing your foot to both over and under pronate?

I too have hyper-mobile joints and it causes instability in all directions (especially in my neck and back).
Do you have a specialty shoe store in your area where you could be fitted by knowledgeable employees for your specific feet and exercise? If not, I wouldn't feel bad asking the pod about it especially since it could potentially prevent further injury to your feet.

andrea121 · 07-24-2008, 02:57 PM

I was born with extremly flat feet. My podiatrist and my orthopedic surgen say that i my joints are extra flexible, which explains why my feet are so flat and my knees are so loose they dislocate. Anyway i am sure that like forevergimpy said they are tied together in your case. Good shoes are very important but it should matter that you take out the insole, my pod told me to do that with my orthodics. I also wear asics, i have pretty much my whole life, they have really good stablity which is aparantly what i need. To me it sounds like you are doing great in the shoe department, but i am not an expert, i am only a 19 year old with a little experience.
good luck

more · 07-24-2008, 04:34 PM

I would suggest going to a running store - I went to one when my PT recommended I get a good pair of shoes which offers support. I had knee problems and after going to the running shoe store they fitted me with a shoe because of overpronating. The pain in my knees went away and I have not had the pain again.

Clar · 07-26-2008, 08:23 AM

Hi, Andrea -- I've read some of your posts, and it sounds as if you are really struggling. Sending you good vibes.... This too shall pass!!!

I'm 23 and I too have very flat feet and joint laxity. I've been dealing with foot/ankle issues for only a year, but I can see it's a long road and very difficult to get through emotionally. I've been on crutches for more than 2 months straight, but at this point I'm getting used to it and actually kind of enjoying the sympathy from my co-workers. ;-)