Orthotics Treat Pain From the Bottom Up: How Foot Support Affects Knees and Back

Orthotics are designed to support the feet so they move and bear weight more efficiently. When your feet are not supported, your body often compensates up the chain, which can increase strain in the ankles, knees, hips, and lower back.

If you are dealing with recurring foot discomfort or aches that worsen after walking or standing, improving foot support can be one of the simplest first steps.

Learn the basics of orthotics and when custom devices are truly needed: Custom Orthotics: The Truth

How foot support can affect pain higher up

Your feet are your foundation. If the arch collapses or the heel rolls inward too much, your lower body can rotate in ways that increase stress over time.

Orthotics may help by:

Supporting the arch and reducing excessive foot collapse
Improving how pressure is distributed across the foot
Helping stabilize the heel to reduce unwanted motion
Reducing strain on overworked muscles and tendons

Common issues that may be linked to poor support

People often look for solutions only where the pain shows up, but the driver can be lower down.

Examples that can be related to foot mechanics include:

Heel pain and plantar fascia irritation
Achilles tendon discomfort
Ball of foot pain (metatarsalgia)
Shin splints
Knee discomfort
Lower back discomfort

Related guides:

Heel Pain
Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
Pronation and Shoe Wear
Ball of Foot Pain (Metatarsalgia)

What to look for in a quality orthotic insert

Not all inserts are built the same. Cushy gel pads can feel good briefly but do not always provide meaningful support.

Look for:

A supportive arch that matches your foot shape
A stable heel cup to help control motion
Firm structure that does not collapse after a few wears
The right length for your shoes (full-length vs 3/4-length)

Shop orthotic insoles

If you want structured arch support designed for everyday shoes, start here:
Orthotics Collection

When to get medical advice

If pain is severe, persistent, associated with swelling, numbness, or a sudden injury, get evaluated by a qualified clinician. This article is educational and not medical advice.