Can my Feet be causing my Pelvic Pain?

By Shannon Strauch, PTA, STMT-1 on 6/6/2024

Foot position can have a significant impact on the pelvic floor due to the interconnectedness of the body's musculoskeletal system. Here are several ways foot positioning can affect the pelvic floor:

1.

Alignment and Posture

• Proper Foot Alignment

  : Proper foot alignment supports the natural alignment of the body. When the feet are positioned correctly, the body maintains a neutral posture, reducing undue stress on the pelvic floor muscles.

• Improper Foot Alignment

  : Flat feet (overpronation) or high arches (supination) can lead to poor posture, which in turn affects the alignment of the pelvis. This misalignment can place additional strain on the pelvic floor muscles.

  

2.

Weight Distribution

• Balanced Weight Distribution

  : When standing or walking with proper foot positioning, weight is evenly distributed. This helps in maintaining balanced muscle activity throughout the body, including the pelvic floor.

• Uneven Weight Distribution

  : If weight is unevenly distributed due to poor foot positioning, certain muscles may become overworked while others are underused. This imbalance can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction.

3.

Muscle Activation

• Engagement of Stabilizing Muscles

  : Proper foot positioning engages stabilizing muscles, including those in the legs, hips, and core, which support the pelvic floor.

• Disengagement or Overactivation

  : Improper foot positioning can lead to either underutilization or overactivation of certain muscles. This can affect the stability and function of the pelvic floor.

4.

Gait Patterns

• Normal Gait Patterns

  : Walking with correct foot positioning promotes a healthy gait pattern, which ensures balanced pelvic floor activity.

• Abnormal Gait Patterns

  : Abnormal gait patterns due to improper foot positioning can lead to compensatory movements. These compensations can strain the pelvic floor muscles.

5.

Pelvic Tilt

• Neutral Pelvic Tilt

  : Proper foot positioning helps maintain a neutral pelvic tilt, supporting the pelvic floor.

• Anterior or Posterior Pelvic Tilt

  : Improper foot positioning can contribute to an anterior (forward) or posterior (backward) pelvic tilt, placing additional stress on the pelvic floor muscles.

Tips for Maintaining Proper Foot Position

• Wear Supportive Footwear

  : Choose shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning to promote proper foot alignment.

• Strengthening Exercises

  : Engage in exercises that strengthen the foot and ankle muscles to support better alignment and balance.

• Posture Awareness

  : Be mindful of your posture while standing, walking, and sitting. Ensure your feet are positioned correctly and your weight is evenly distributed.

• Professional Assessment

  : Consider consulting a podiatrist or physical therapist for a professional assessment of your foot positioning and its impact on your overall posture and pelvic floor health.

Understanding and maintaining proper foot positioning can play a crucial role in supporting the health and function of the pelvic floor. Looking to optimize your well being with pelvic floor physical therapy? Reach out to us at Pelvic Health Center in Madison, NJ to set up an evaluation and treatment! Feel free to call us at 908-443-9880 or email us at receptionmadison@pelvichealthnj.com.

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