Il pronated valgus foot It is a pathology that, affecting the foot, affects posture and the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
Characterized by the inward deviation of the footThis condition impairs walking, causing inflammation and pain not only in the foot.
In this post we will find out more What is pronated valgus foot?, its causes and how to fight it through useful tips for everyday life.
What is pronated valgus foot?
Il pronated valgus foot It shows up inclined inwards due to the outward rotation of the heel and the significant lowering of the plantar arch.
This very particular condition is, in reality, very common and causes many physical problems.
In fact, theirregular inclination of the foot, in this case towards the inside, can cause damage to both ankle and knee, preventing proper walking and posture.
If left untreated, valgus pronation can cause further orthopedic damage which would significantly and significantly lower the quality of life of those affected.
Causes of pronated valgus foot
Like almost all pathologies affecting the feet and ankles, valgus pronation is also caused by a combination of environmental factors, behavioral e genetic.
It is worth listing the most significant and probable causes of valgus pronation:
- Developmental abnormalitiesImproper development of bones and tendons during childhood can lead to incorrect formation of the foot structure. Often, these developmental anomalies are related to congenital problems;
- Genetic factors: not to be underestimated is the genetic predisposition which can increase the risk of developmental abnormalities and foot and ankle disorders.
- Neuromuscular diseases: other pathologies, therefore, such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy, can weaken the muscles with consequent alteration of the posture of the foot;
- Injuries and traumas: fractures and sprains they can alter the correct alignment of the foot, contributing to damage the structure of the foot and to the development of pronated valgus foot;
- Physical Activity: if exercised excessively and incorrectly it can contribute to the development of the pathology; furthermore, excessive physical activity, in addition to stressing the feet, ankles and joints, can also be the cause of trauma and injuries;
- Inadequate footwear: the uncomfortable and inappropriate shoes they promote the development of foot pathologies, above all because they alter the biomechanics;
- Obesity: excessive weight goes to press your feet harderThis pressure often causes the arch of the foot to lower, which significantly influences the development of the valgus pronation foot.
Symptoms of pronated valgus foot
I common symptoms of pronated valgus foot They are varied and comparable to the symptoms of other foot pathologies.
However, there are some particular and recognizable symptoms which need to be paid attention to, so that the problem can be identified as soon as possible and a doctor can be consulted.
Il classic foot pain It can range from mild to severe, particularly affecting the inner area of the foot and heel. This pain, which is quite localized, can extend to the ankle and knee due to incorrect foot alignment.
Those who suffer from this pathology tend to feeling tired in your feet during physical activity much sooner than expected. This is because, having to maintain balance and stability on a pronated foot, muscles and ligaments will have to work twice as hard as normal.
Excessive pronation of the foot causes inflammation of the tendons and ligaments of the foot, which in turn causes the swelling of the area of the arch of the foot and the heel.
even the formation of calluses and blisters It's a symptom of pronated valgus foot. The excessive and uneven pressure the foot is subjected to contributes to the formation of calluses and blisters, especially on the inner edge of the foot.
La feeling of instability and reduced mobility of the foot These are two other related symptoms, due to the malformation of the foot and the resulting pain.
It is important to pay attention to these symptoms especially for diagnose pronated valgus foot in time and start and treat it properly.
Diagnosis of pronated valgus foot
Once the symptoms of pronated valgus foot have been recognized, it is essential to consult a doctor and diagnose this pathology.
But how to do it? diagnosis of pronated valgus foot?
By following a few small and simple steps, you will reach a diagnosis and be able to proceed with the appropriate treatment.
Diagnosing pronated valgus foot involves:
a physical exam: during which the doctor examines the posture and mobility of the foot;
- imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans, to detect any bone deformities, joint or tissue damage;
- functional tests: exercises, balance tests and resistance tests to evaluate the mobility and muscle strength of the foot;
- plantar pressure analysis: a test used to measure the distribution of pressure on the sole of the foot, both during walking and standing;
- biomechanical evaluation: it is used to obtain precise data on the biomechanics of the foot, such as gait dynamics, the condition of muscles and joints; all this is done with specialized instruments, such as baropodometric platforms or movement analysis systems;
- anamnesis: after having collected all the information the doctor also evaluates the patient's clinical historyThis step also helps assess the patient's general health, including any trauma or pre-existing medical conditions. The medical history also helps the doctor determine the best treatment to recommend.
How to treat pronated valgus foot
Based on the pronated valgus foot condition, expectations and the general health of the patient It will be necessary to evaluate and decide what type of approach to choose to begin fighting this pathology.
To simplify and provide a general overview, treatments are usually divided into two macro categories: non-surgical treatments e surgical treatments.
Non-Surgical Treatments
By their very definition, these treatments they do not require surgery specialized.
I non-surgical treatments Recommended and most common for pronated valgus foot are:
- use of orthoses: or custom insoles to support the arch of the foot and correct poor foot alignment; these insoles are often custom-made to the patient's specific needs;
- physiotherapy: exercises to improve mobility and posture, strengthening the foot muscles and improving mobility; stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot, ankle, and calf muscles are included;
- use of orthopedic shoes: Design to provide additional support and distribute body weight evenly; wearing shoes with good arch support and a stable sole, therefore, helps improve foot alignment and reduce symptoms.
- therapeutic massages: aimed at the muscles of the foot and ankle, to reduce muscle tension, improve blood circulation and relieve pain associated with pronation;
- taking anti-inflammatory drugs: or anti-inflammatory gels and creams, helps reduce swelling and pain in the foot;
All these treatments necessarily involve the lifestyle modificationTargeted physical activity and weight loss help reduce stress on the foot and improve muscle strength in the feet and ankles.
Surgical Treatments
When the condition of the pronated valgus foot is serious and the patient's quality of life is now compromised, doctors recommend resorting to surgery.
Among surgical interventions for pronated valgus foot, the most commonly performed are:
- The Osteotomy: partial or total repositioning of the bones of the foot; it serves to correct the alignment of the foot, in fact, bone grafts may be needed to maintain the correct alignment.
- The ArthrodesisAlso called joint fusion, because it involves the fusion of one or more joints; it helps relieve pain and stabilize the foot when the condition is severe.
- La Tendon TranspositionThis procedure is performed when it is necessary to reposition or strengthen the tendons to restore functionality to the foot.
Tips for everyday life
To prevent the development of pronated valgus foot, there are daily practices that help maintain the health of your feet and ankles.
Among the useful tips for daily life, the primary one is obviously:use of appropriate footwearThe inward inclination of the foot, as already mentioned, is related to the excessive lowering of the plantar arch. This very condition makes almost impossible to find comfortable shoes; In fact, you will have to look for shoes with the right support and therefore turn to specialized retailers.
Not to be underestimated are the exercises to do at homePractical, quick and manageable, these activities to do at home include calf exercises, balance exercises and exercises of strengthening the foot muscles.
Always important for general health, but especially for foot health is the body weight controlMaintaining a balanced and not excessive body weight is essential to avoid stressing the feet and reducing the load on the soles of the feet.
In addition to “to do”, exist helpful tips on what “not to do”.
Those are to be avoided physical activities that are too stressful for our bodyRunning on hard surfaces or engaging in extreme sports, for which our bodies are not prepared, only negatively impact foot health.
Defeat pronated valgus foot: Book your SmartHallux appointment.
A debilitating disease like pronated valgus foot can severely compromise a person's quality of life.
It is important to always pay attention to the health of your feet and ankles.
An early and timely diagnosis It is the first step in taking action and resolving foot pathologies.
SmartHallux, thanks to its innovative techniques and specialized surgeons, ensures professionalism and timely diagnoses.
Book your visit now with SmartHallux and begin your treatment journey to regain a healthy foot.
