MGFS Breaking News: 08/01/2011

Foot Posture

Is there a relationship between foot posture and overuse injuries? Research is beginning to investigate the differences in foot motion between people.

Feet (Photo credit: Prio)

Pazit Levinger et al. reports in "A comparison of foot kinematics in people with normal- and flat-arched feet using the Oxford Foot Model" in the October 2010 edition of Gait and Posture that people with flat-arched feet have altered motion that is associated with greater pronation during gait. The researchers conclude that this may be one of the factors that may increase the risk of overuse injuries.

So what does this mean to us? In my opinion, the average older adult is more prone to foot posture issues as a result of aging. Therefore, this study provides more evidence for the active older adult to get their foot posture issues addressed by a medical professional.

Shin Splints

How many times have you awakened and discovered that the front of your leg hurts? Your mind begins to review all of your activities that occurred in the previous day and concludes "I overdid it running."

Yes, we all have experienced this pain commonly called shin splints. According to Moore and Agur, in their landmark textbook, Essential Clinical Anatomy, "shin splints, edema and pain in the area of the distal third of the tibia, results from repetitive microtrauma of the tibilias anterior."

In the drawing above, the tibilias anterior muscle is located at the front of the lower leg. It is one of several muscles that are surrounded by some connective tissue called fascia. This connective tissue acts like an elastic sock that maintains some mild pressure on the muscle. Muscle irritation inside tight compartments causes problems.

So, if the muscles become irritated from sudden overuse, then logically we need to rest those muscles until the pain subsides and upon resumption of exercise, gradually increase duration. Of course, any significant increase in pain requires evaluation by a medical professional.

The Carpal Tunnel

Have you ever wondered about what causes Carpal Tunnel pain? Looking at my illustration clearly shows that a lot of structures pass through a very tight space in your wrist.

The drawing depicits some of the carpal bones and the ligament that creates the carpal tunnel. There are ten structures that pass through the tunnel, of which the most superficial of these structures is the Median Nerve. Given its location, the Median Nerve is frequently compressed and becomes inflammed.

If you are experiencing what you suspect is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, get your wrist evaluated by a medical professional. They can recommend and proscribe a variety of treatment programs.