Orthotics and the Kinetic Chain

THE BASICS OF THE “KINETIC CHAIN” AND IT’S AFFECTS ON HUMAN PERFORMANCE AND COMMON MUSCULOSKELETAL DISORDERS

By Dr. Joseph J. Frasco

The kinetic chain plays a key role in understanding the biomechanics of a patient’s postural condition. A structural imbalance in the feet can impact other body parts, all the way up through the spine.

The use of custom-made orthotics is frequently indicated to restore balance and provide a level pedal foundation. Orthotics are especially valuable in cases where foot pronation and arch ligament laxity have been observed. Flexible, custom-made orthotics address excessive pronation and provide support for the collapsed structures in the feet, creating a sturdy base for the rest of the biomechanical kinetic chain.

The human body is an extraordinarily complex interaction of muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints. I’m sure you have heard the old gospel song ” the foot bone Is connected to the knee bone and the knee bone Is connected to the hip bone” etc.

Kinetic means “force” and chain Is defined as a system that Is linked together. In order for the human body to perform at Its optimal level, all of the muscles, ligaments tendons and joint systems must support each other.

When there Is a break in any of the systems “link in the chain” than optimal performance on health and wellness cannot occur, and over time due to repetitive stress the human body will become damaged and result in a breakdown, serious Injury and pain.

Faulty foot biomechanics can have a negative impact on all supporting joints above the foot/ankle complex.

Excessive pronation Is a common foot and ankle abnormality. Abnormal instability in weight-bearing mode will create microtrauma in the soft tissues. Over time, even with only normal foot use, symptomatic conditions may develop—such as arch strain and fatigue, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions and metatarsal stress fractures.

Once the pedal foundation has been compromised, the effects of this instability will manifest farther up the leg as conditions such as shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, knee problems, bursitis of the hip and spinal disorders

Corrective orthotic support

The kinetic chain plays a key role in understanding the biomechanics of a patient’s postural condition. A structural imbalance in the feet can impact other body parts, all the way up through the spine. The use of a custom molded foot orthotics can literally destress all of the links in the kinetic chain. This will Improve your performance, posture and prevent injury.