To explain how orthotics function, it is important to understand the mechanics of walking. The bio-mechanics of walking are different than those of running. Walking is a complex process that requires our whole body. The head, shoulders, arms, spine, hips, legs, and feet – to move in sync, maintaining balance and coordination.
The foot itself acts as a shock absorber for dispersing the force of the body as it lands. Your feet and legs are what propel your body forward as you walk. With each step, the vertical axis of the heel ideally should land almost perpendicular to the ground, with a slight inclination of only a few degrees toward the outside of the heel. From there, the weight is distributed progressively toward the lateral (outside) side of the foot. As the little (or fifth) toe starts to touch the ground, the arch of the foot should flatten slightly, shifting the body’s weight toward the medial (inside) side of the foot. The heel then should start to lift off the ground, shifting the weight to the medial forefoot, principally the ball of the foot and the big toe. While this action occurs, your rear foot forcefully pushes off from your toes. This motion, called propulsion, moves your body forward.
