Foot biomechanics Q for podiatrists, PTs, and the like

Triathlon Forum
1

I’ve been told by both my podiatrist and my PT that I have a very rigid foot with a very high arch. This has lead me to chronic running injuries in the past, mostly minor stuff, but occasionally requiring me to rest from running. Recently, I had an informal gait analysis done by my PT, who says that I need a neutral shoe with heavy shock absorption, and no arch support or orthodics. To complicate things, my podiatrist says I need virtually the exact opposite. He wants me to use a stability shoe with a rigid insert (like the green Superfeet insert) with arch support and recommended that I look into an orthodic if I continue to have problems. Both recommend consistent stretching and ice before bed. I am a little confused to why I am getting such polar opposite responses, but I don’t have the technical knowledge to know who makes more sense. I’m looking to get more opinions from those who have had similar clients.

-Thanks,

2

Can’t answer without seeing as their are many other factors than just your foot biomechanics that matter and cause symptoms. But, in general, if you have a “rigid” foot (which implies a lack of pronation at the subtalar joint with the midtarsal joint locked with your hight forefoot angle), then you should NOT need an orthotic. You most certainly want a “cushioned” shoe (which could be neutral or a structured cushioning type), but definitely NOT a motion control shoe.