MAY 2010 NEWSLETTER Sinus Self Care Archives Foot Biomechanics/Arches, Orthotics (Arch Supports) There are three Arches of the Foot: First Arch: the longitudinal arch (long arch) runs from heel to the toes. (See Ar 1) Second Arch: the distal transverse arch runs like a little bridge from big toe to little toe at the ball of the foot. (See Ar 2) Third Arch: the middle transverse arch, which we are more familiar with, is located in the instep of our foot. It is the rise in the instep that runs in front of the heel. The arch padding in the instep of a shoe is usually placed under this arch. (See Ar 3) Foot Biomechanics The foot serves as a shock absorber during the heel strike through foot flat phase of walking. As we begin to step forward, our front leg swings with the arch fully raised in preparation to strike the ground. The outer heel strikes the ground first and weight is taken from outside of the foot to the inner side as the arch lowers. (See Ar 4) Our arches are like flexible cups that lower toward the floor to absorb our weight. This lowering is called pronation and is a normal part of walking. (See clip Ar 4.5) Arches should ideally rise completely to be ready for the next step. This are rising is called supination. If arches do not return to their full height, they provide only partial shock absorption as they hit the floor. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Movementwise makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2006