24th May 2024

The Link Between Foot and Back Disorders: Understanding and Impact

In today's world, where we are increasingly focused on computer work, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of proper physical activity, health problems are becoming more common. Some of the most common complaints are foot and back problems. At first glance, these two different types of diseases seem unrelated. However, medical research in recent years shows that there is a deep relationship between them. Let's look at this connection in more detail.

Anatomy and physiology

Before we start discussing the connection between foot and back disorders, it is important to understand the anatomy and physiology of both parts of the body. The foot is made up of many bones, tendons, muscles, and ligaments that provide support and movement. It also contains a number of nerve endings that play a key role in transmitting signals of pain and discomfort. The back, on the other hand, is a complex structure made up of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, muscles, and ligaments. It supports the body, provides mobility, and protects the spinal cord.

Main causes of foot and back diseases

Flat feet and arched feet

Flat feet, or a low longitudinal arch of the foot, can result in improper distribution of weight on the foot, which in turn can cause painful changes in the structure and function of the foot. This impact can spread to the back, causing imbalance and tension in the muscles and ligaments.

Degenerative diseases

Degenerative diseases of the spine can lead to changes in the structure of the intervertebral discs and joints. This can cause pinched nerves in the lumbar spine, which in turn can lead to pain in the legs and feet.

Poor posture

Constantly putting pressure on your back due to poor seating or posture can create uneven stress on the muscles and ligaments, including those associated with the foot. This can cause pain in both the back and feet.

Injuries and damage

Back injuries, such as sprains or fractures, can lead to changes in gait, which in turn can place additional stress on the feet.

Interaction between feet and back

• Biomechanical factors: Research shows that changes in gait biomechanics caused by foot diseases can lead to compensatory changes in the spine and, therefore, cause back pain.
• Spread of pain: Pain in one part of the body can spread and cause pain in other areas. For example, leg pain due to flat feet can cause compensatory changes in gait, which in turn can lead to back pain.
• Systemic factors: Some systemic diseases, such as arthritis and diabetes, can affect both the feet and the back, causing various types of pain and discomfort.

Prevention and treatment

Understanding the relationship between foot and back disorders is important for their prevention and treatment. Here are some recommendations:

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: Regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight will help reduce your risk of developing foot and back problems.
• Wear proper shoes: Supporting your feet with the right shoes reduces the risk of flat feet and other foot conditions, which in turn reduces the risk of back pain.
• Correct bedding furniture and mattresses: Using suitable mattresses and pillows helps maintain proper posture and reduces stress on your back while sleeping.
• Regular consultations with a specialist: It is important to see a doctor regularly to identify and treat foot and back problems in the early stages.

You can consult podiatry doctors and pain specialists about the best strategies for prevention. 

The bottom line

There is a clear relationship between foot and back problems. Biomechanical, somatic, and systemic factors play a role in the development of these problems, and understanding this relationship is key to their prevention and treatment. Regular exercise, eating right, wearing appropriate shoes, and seeking professional help can help keep your feet and back healthy.