So
many people think of chiropractors as adjusters of the spine. Did you know
that the feet can be adjusted too? The spine has 24 bones, or "vertebrae".
The foot has 26 bones! Joints (where bone meet bone) in the feet become “stuck”
just like vertebrae of the spine. It is just as important, if not more, to
make sure the joints in the foot are freely 
moving as in the spine. Your feet are your
foundation and if they are not moving correctly then the rest of the body can
suffer. Poor foot mechanics create torsion at the knee and an unleveled pelvis.
This results in pain in the ankles, knees, low back and can create a scoliosis
of the spine depending on the severity of foot malfunction.
How do your feet become this way? There are many reasons. You could have ill fitted shoes. You might run in poor terrain. Injuries that were never rehabilitated, such as an ankle sprain, could be responsible for weak muscles and/or poor muscle strength/length ratios. Pregnancy can also create stresses on the foot.
If you are a runner, or participate in other athletic sports, proper foot mechanics are especially important. Performance is hindered if the feet are not functioning optimally. For instance, excessive foot pronation (fallen arches) creates a functional short leg. Studies show that this increase to the VO2 (oxygen consumption), resulting in reduced performance.
How does the doctor treat a patient’s feet? He palpates the joints of the foot to feel if they are moving correctly. He has various techniques for adjusting the foot depending where the fixation is located. Most people feel like they have new feet after the first adjustment. If the problem goes beyond the adjustment, as in the case with fallen arches and rear foot pronation, there are a couple of choices. We carry over-the counter orthotics available for purchase or, if necessary the doctor will make custom orthotics for your condition.
What Every Body Needs Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
To schedule an appointment call (619) 265-2222