In the offices of chiropractors, there are some conditions that we see more often as the seasons change. After a snowfall, there are lots of “thrown out” backs from shoveling and bruised tailbones from slipping on ice. In the spring, there are shoulder issues from the hedge trimmers. In the summer, we see whiplash symptoms from tubing on the lake, and we also see many issues with FEET!
Starting in May, people switch to wearing their sandals and flip-flops. By late June to early July, we see a tremendous influx of patients complaining of plantar fasciitis, ankle pain, and even knee and hip pain. This is because most sandals and flip-flops have no arch support—whereas most “winter shoes” like sneakers and boots have at least a mild arch in the insole. Additionally, people who wear specialized insoles and orthotics in their closed-toe shoes can’t wear them in their open-toed shoes, so they are without them for the warm weather months.
Why are chiropractors even paying attention to feet and arch support? First, we are educated and trained to address nearly all of the joints in the body, not just the spine. When poor arch support leads to feet and ankles becoming misaligned, we can help restore normal alignment and function. Even more importantly, when the arches collapse, the knees and hips buckle, which can lead to a tilted pelvis. The pelvis is the foundation of the whole spine, so a tilted pelvis is a common cause of spinal problems. Everything is connected, and a collapsed arch can literally cause issues all the way to the top of the body, one joint at a time. If we are working to fix someone’s low back problem, we cannot make a long-term change if the alignment keeps being compromised by improper foot structure and support.
In our office, we partner with a company that makes custom orthotic insoles that support all three arches of the foot. Patients only have to step on a scanner to have a laser map of their feet made, and we can order insoles that support their feet precisely where they need help. They work beautifully, but that still doesn’t solve the issue of only being able to wear them in closed-toe shoes.
The good news is that they also offer a whole line of sandals and flip-flops that have the custom arch support built right into the sole. I personally have a pair of sandals and two different styles of flip-flops that perfectly support my feet all summer long. Since adding the scanning technology to our office, patients are thrilled with their custom summer footwear!
We live in the South. It’s hot. We are going to wear flops. We are excited about that because this summer fewer of our patients will suffer because of them. So grab your umbrella drink, custom flops, and head to the pool!
Dr. Nicole Whitehead is a chiropractor and owner of Advanced Spinal Fitness in Mooresville. The doctors at ASF treat patients of all ages for a variety of conditions. A member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Nicole has specialty training, certification, and a deep passion for helping infants and children. Connect with her at 704.663.5142 or via their website at www.AdvancedSpinalFitness.net.
