What Your Feet Say About Your Musculoskeletal System

Chase Riley PT, DPT, Cert. DN

Flat feet, high arches, bunions, hammer toes, plantar fasciitis, and heel pain, buzzwords that we are all likely familiar with; but what do your feet reveal about your musculoskeletal system?

Our feet undergo these changes for two reasons: intrinsic musculoskeletal changes inside our bodies and the extrinsic forces applied to our bodies that come with daily activity.

 Many of these changes to our feet happen slowly over time and go unnoticed until they become painful and get our attention.

Physical therapy evaluation can identify those changes in the musculoskeletal system that have contributed to or resulted from the changes in your feet.
An individualized physical therapy treatment plan can aid in the restoration of those musculoskeletal changes including muscular flexibility, joint mobility, motor control, and strength. A physical therapist can help you make informed decisions regarding use of orthotics and appropriate footwear decisions specific to the needs of your feet.