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Overpronation is a common biomechanical characteristic of the foot where the arch collapses inward excessively during the gait cycle. This means that as a person walks or runs, their foot rolls inward more than is considered normal. The foot is designed to pronate, a natural rolling motion that helps absorb shock. However, excessive pronation can lead to several issues.

During the stance phase of walking or running, the foot should land on the outside of the heel, roll inward to absorb shock, and then roll outward to push off. In overpronation, the inward roll is exaggerated and may continue for too long, or the foot may not adequately supinate (roll outward) for a proper push-off. This can cause the lower leg to rotate inward, affecting the alignment of the knee and hip.

The causes of overpronation can be varied. It can be hereditary, meaning it's a natural foot structure inherited from parents. Certain foot conditions, such as flat feet (pes planus), often contribute to overpronation because the lack of a supportive arch allows the foot to collapse more easily. Weakness in the muscles that support the arch, like the tibialis posterior, can also play a significant role. Other contributing factors can include obesity, improper footwear that doesn't offer enough support, or injuries that alter the mechanics of the foot and ankle.

Symptoms associated with overpronation can range from mild discomfort to significant pain. Common complaints include pain in the arch, heel, ankle, shin, knee, or even the hip. People who overpronate may also experience conditions like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, and stress fractures. These issues arise due to the abnormal stress placed on the soft tissues and joints of the foot and lower extremities. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying causes and providing support to correct the biomechanical imbalance.