Educational Articles

Pronation vs. Overpronation

Posted By Marty Hughes, DC

In this video, sports podiatrist and Correct Toes inventor Dr. Ray McClanahan examines pronation and explains the difference between pronation and overpronation. Pronation—the combination of three separate events in the foot and ankle, including subtalar eversion, ankle dorsiflexion, and forefoot abduction—is normal and natural, but it can lead to problems when it becomes excessive. Dr. Ray takes a closer look at what's happening at the joints at the back of the foot during pronation and demonstrates why conventional shoes, including most athletic shoes, create a situation in which overpronation is unavoidable. He also demonstrates how to use toe splay and foot-healthy footwear to help check excessive pronation and prevent lower leg problems.

Disclaimer:

The above content is for educational or informational purposes only and is not intended to replace or augment professional medical instruction, diagnosis, or treatment. Read full disclaimer here.
TAGS: ANKLE, ARCH STABILITY, PRONATION, TOPICS
About the Author

Marty Hughes, DC
Dr. Marty Hughes is a chiropractic physician, or DC. He received his doctoral degree from Western States Chiropractic College (WSCC), now known as the University of Western States (UWS). Dr. Marty has always been interested in foot health, due to the connection between the feet and the spine. He has worked as a freelance writer for LiveStrong.com, for whom he contributed over 2,200 health-and-fitness articles. He is a co-founder of Natural Footgear and an ardent supporter of natural foot care approaches. Dr. Marty enjoys road cycling, trail running, hiking, canoeing, and cross-country skiing as well as exploring the mountains of Western North Carolina.

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Comments
March 30, 2018
W

Can you share with me the video that demonstrates how to modify Correct Toes toe spacers?

March 30, 2018
Natural Footgear

Hi, W,

Thank you for your comment. We’d be happy to! You can find the link to the comprehensive Correct Toes modifications video here:

www.naturalfootgear.com/blogs/product-info/17921896-correct-toes-modifications-comprehensive

I hope this is helpful. If you have further questions, please just let us know!

Kind Regards,
Andrew Potter

February 21, 2021
Jen

I naturally roll OUT, placing stress and pressure on the 5th metatarsal and knife-edge of the foot. Would Correct Toes help with this? I have seen many doctors and so far, no relief. Everyone wants to prescribe custom orthotics.

February 21, 2021
Natural Footgear

Hi, Jen,

Thank you for your comment and question. Correct Toes is helpful in stabilizing the foot and ankle, period, and so whether your issue is excessive pronation or excessive supination, it’s most likely that you will notice a positive change after adopting Correct Toes.

Please let us know if you have any further questions we can assist with!

Kind regards,
Marty Hughes, DC

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