How You Walk
our heel
swings from side to side as your foot moves. When the heel
swings correctly, your foot can flatten and regain its arch
as you walk. But if your heel swings too much, your foot
may flatten more than it should. Over time, such excess
movement may cause foot problems.
When
the heel hits the ground, its
outer edge touches first. Soft tissues (muscles, tendons
and ligaments) relax. Your foot is able to flatten, adapt
to uneven surfaces, and absorb the shock of
touchdown.
During midstance, your
heel is below the anklebone, and the front and back of your
foot are aligned. Your foot easily bears your weight
As the heel lifts, it
swings slightly to the inside. Muscles, tendons, and
ligaments tighten. Your foot regains its arch, allowing
your toes to push your weight off the
ground.