Knee pain is a common condition that can arise from multiple causes, including trauma, overload or pathological conditions such as genu valgum. However, the importance of plantar support in the onset and treatment of pain involving the knee joint or the suprasegmental area, i.e. the area above the ankle joint, is often underestimated.
Let's focus on the anatomy of genu valgum, a condition characterized by a lateral deviation of the knees that causes a misalignment of the joint. This misalignment, in turn, leads to excessive compression on the lateral compartment of the knee and an abnormal stretching of the medial compartment.
The interaction between this condition and the structure of the foot should not be underestimated. In fact, it is common for genu valgum to be associated with a pronated foot, characterized by the lowering of the inside of the foot and the external rotation of the heel, a phenomenon known as hindfoot valgus.
While many people may consider using knee braces as a temporary solution, it is important to note that these do not address the underlying cause of the problem. Instead, a more effective solution may be the use of orthotic insoles.
Orthotic insoles work by stabilizing the hindfoot during the contact phase of the foot with the ground and supporting the medial longitudinal arch during the pronation movement. This targeted action reduces functional overload on the knee joint , promoting optimal alignment and balanced distribution of forces.
Investing in correcting your foot strike can not only alleviate existing pain, but it can also prevent the problem from recurring. Therefore, it is essential to consider foot strike as an integral part of knee pain management, both in the acute phase and preventatively.
In conclusion, to maximize joint health and ensure a better long-term quality of life, it is essential to carefully evaluate the plantar support and consider the use of orthopedic insoles as part of the treatment of knee pain .
