As a podiatrist, I see many patients who come to me complaining of knee pain. While many of them assume that their knee pain is caused by a problem in the knee joint itself, I often find that foot problems are a contributing factor. In fact, as a podiatrist, I know that knee pain may in fact be linked to the foot.
As a podiatrist, I see many patients who come to me complaining of knee pain.
These patients often get a shock, when they find out that their knee pain isn’t being caused by the knee joint itself. It is often forgotten that the foot is the foundation of the body, and any problems with the feet can lead to improper alignment and mechanics in the legs and knees.
For instance, I have seen many patients with flat feet or fallen arches, which can cause the knees to turn inward, a condition known as genu valgum or “knock knees.” This puts extra stress on the knee joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
On the other hand, high arches can also contribute to knee pain, as they can cause the foot to roll outward, a condition called supination. This, too, can result in misalignment in the legs and knees, leading to pain and discomfort.
Another common foot problem that can lead to knee pain is overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively. Overpronation can cause the knee to twist and turn, resulting in pain and discomfort.
In addition to foot problems, I also find that the wrong type of shoes can contribute to knee pain. High-heeled shoes, for instance, can cause the knees to bend forward, putting extra stress on the knee joint. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can also affect the alignment of the legs and knees, leading to pain and discomfort.
My role as a podiatrist is to identify any foot problems that may be contributing to knee pain. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of the feet and legs, as well as diagnostic tests such as X-rays or ultrasound scans.
Once I have identified any foot problems, I can develop a customized treatment plan that may include physical therapy, custom orthotics, and other supportive measures to address the underlying issue. In some cases, referral to an orthopedic specialist, regenerative medicine clinic, physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor can be recommended.
In conclusion, if you are experiencing knee pain, it is important to consider the role that foot problems may be playing in your discomfort. As a podiatrist, I am trained to evaluate and treat foot problems that can contribute to knee pain. By addressing these underlying issues, we can help you achieve better alignment, reduced pain, and an improved quality of life.
So don’t hesitate to book an appointment with a qualified podiatrist to get the care you need 🙂
Should you have any questions or would like to know if we can help you, call our team on (03) 9711 7562 or make an appointment with me through Book Online | The Footcare Clinic on our website!
