Feet, Knees, and Back – Movement in Concert

Our feet make contact with the ground when standing and walking. But movement doesn't end at the foot: ankles, knees, hips, and back work together with every step. Changes in foot position or gait can therefore influence movement patterns in other areas – without the complaints necessarily originating in the feet.

The Body Moves as an Interconnected Kinetic Chain

When walking, many movements interlock. The foot lands, absorbs load, and rolls off. Simultaneously, the ankle, knee, and hip move, while the trunk and spine stabilize the body.

If one part of this interplay changes, movements elsewhere can also change. Studies, for example, show correlations between certain forms of foot movement and the kinematics of the knee and hip. However, such correlations are individual and do not allow for the simple conclusion that a specific foot position automatically causes knee or back problems.

You can learn what a natural movement sequence looks like in the article [Walking Correctly].

How are Foot Position and Gait Related?

Not every foot stands and moves the same way. Differences in foot arch, flexibility, and roll-off behavior are initially normal. What is crucial is how the foot functions under load and how the overall movement sequence is shaped.

A pronounced inward or outward movement of the foot, for example, can be accompanied by altered movements of the lower leg and knee. At the same time, the hip, musculature, and posture also act on the lower limbs. Thus, the kinetic chain works in both directions – the foot is a part of it, but not fundamentally the starting point of every problem.

If there are recognizable misalignments or complaints, you can find an overview in the article [The Most Common Foot Problems].

What Role Do the Feet Play for the Knee?

The knee is located between the foot and the hip and must absorb and transmit various forces during walking. The way the foot lands and rolls off can influence the position and movement of the lower leg.

Although studies on knee complaints show correlations between certain foot characteristics and knee mechanics, the results are not uniform. Knee complaints should therefore not be hastily attributed solely to the feet.

Can Feet and Back Pain Be Related?

Correlations can also exist between foot function and the back, but a simple cause-and-effect relationship cannot be derived from this. A large population-based study, for example, found no general connection between static foot position and back pain. In women, however, a correlation was observed between a stronger inward foot movement during walking and lower back complaints.

Back pain can have many causes. Therefore, for new, severe, or persistent complaints, a professional or medical clarification is advisable.

What is the Importance of Suitable Shoes?

Shoes influence the direct contact between the foot and the ground. An appropriate length and width, sufficient toe space, and a secure fit can help prevent unnecessary pressure and unfavorable stress on the foot. Shoes that are too tight, too wide, or unsuitable for the intended use, on the other hand, can cause additional stress.

Which shoe is suitable depends on foot shape, fit, personal wearing comfort, and intended use. You can find information on this under [Finding the Right Shoe].

Consider Feet as Part of the Whole

Feet, knees, hips, and back do not function independently of each other when walking. Changes in one area can influence movement patterns in another – however, how strongly and whether this leads to complaints varies from person to person.

Therefore, it is worthwhile not to consider only individual body regions when assessing posture and movement. Well-fitting shoes can form an important basis for comfortable walking, but they do not replace a professional examination for existing complaints.