Do you experience these problems: a dull ache in your knees when going up and down stairs, or a sore and stiff lower back after standing for extended periods? Despite trying various massage and relaxation techniques, the problems keep recurring. The root of the problem might be in your feet.
Our body is a complex and interconnected system. You can imagine your bones and joints as a tall tower built of building blocks, with your feet as the foundation. If this foundation is crooked or unstable, the entire tower’s alignment will shift. To maintain balance, every “building block” above (ankles, knees, hips, and spine) has to compensate and adjust.
In daily life, many common foot problems, such as flat feet, high arches, or improper gait, are equivalent to problems with this “foundation.” For example, when the arch of the foot collapses excessively (flat feet), the ankle tilts inward excessively (pronation), leading to internal rotation of the tibia, abnormal pressure distribution on the knee joint, and pelvic tilt, ultimately forcing the lumbar spine out of its neutral position. Over time, the medial cartilage of the knee joint and the muscles and ligaments of the lower back will become strained and painful due to the extra and uneven load.
So, how can we break this vicious cycle from the root? Professionally designed, scientifically supportive insoles (or orthotic insoles) play a crucial role. Their core function is to provide precise and stable support for the feet, restoring correct alignment.
A good pair of scientifically designed supportive insoles can effectively support collapsed arches or alleviate the rigidity of high arches, correcting tilted ankles. Many people suffering from knee and lower back pain have experienced significant relief and improved athletic performance after consistently using appropriate supportive insoles combined with correct rehabilitation exercises. Of course, severe musculoskeletal problems still require consultation with a doctor or physical therapist first.
Taking care of your health sometimes requires starting with the most basic step. Paying attention to your feet might be the first key to unlocking the chain of pain throughout your body.