A normal functioning foot allows for movement and can supinate and pronate (form arch and lower arch, respectively) when necessary. This still applies to those who possess a structurally high arch and those that have “flat” feet. Regardless of the shape or size of your arch, there is still some degree of supination and pronation motions that is necessary for you to function optimally.

Controlled motion of the foot relies on an orchestration of muscular efforts, and is not limited only to the intrinsic muscles of the foot and ankle; optimal foot function also requires a synergistic effort from muscles throughout the lower leg, knee, and even the hip.

A limitation in motion in any of the joints of the lower extremity can translate to the foot, thereby leading to excessive pronation and causing the stresses of bodyweight and movement to be inappropriately placed on passive tissues such as the plantar fascia. In most cases, the plantar fascia is not to blame for it’s own irritation – faulty alignment, poor biomechanics and poor muscular control are to blame for irritation and inflammation of the tissue. Simply put, if the muscles don’t control it well, passive tissues receive undue stress until they becomes irritated. Then we have been foolishly treating the final symptom and pretending we had a long term solution!

The bottom line is that you can R.I.C.E. the irritated area to give an opportunity for it to heal, but if you want to go beyond symptom-oriented treatment, you’ll have to address the weaknesses, inhibitions and inefficiencies in the muscle- support system that have failed to handle their share of the workload.

In order to achieve effective and pain free movement the muscles that support and control the lower extremity must be working properly and balanced. The preferred method of assessing and correcting weaknesses and muscle imbalances is a biomechanics assessment system known as Muscle Activation Techniques (M.A.T.). M.A.T. corrects the imbalances that lead to pain, inflexibility and limited physical performance.

With Certified and Master Certified Specialists throughout the country, it has become easier for any person currently enrolled in a physical activity program to see a M.A.T. practitioner to receive an assessment of his or her unique biomechanical needs.

Bio-Dynamix, a fitness and wellness firm in Shelton, CT, is the longest standing M.A.T. practice in New England, and specializes in precision exercise, conditioning and muscle balancing. Questions or Comments, Contact Bio-Dynamix 3 Corporate Dr, Shelton, CT 203-225-0772 info@bio-dynamix.com www.bio-dynamix.com