Pronation is a term used to describe the arch of the foot becoming flat. A pronated foot is simply a flat foot. To pronate means that the foot is rolling in or flattening. Supination, on the other hand, refers to a foot that is rolling out and creating an arch. A supinated foot is simply a high arched foot. You can try this yourself. Simply put your foot on the floor, and keeping the sole of your foot on the floor, roll the foot from the inside to the outside. There you go. Now you're pronating and supinating.

A pronated or supinated foot is neither a good or a bad thing. A foot that is mildly pronated may work for a lifetime without symptoms while a foot that is very pronated can indicate many different types of problems. Rigid, pronated feet in young adults may indicate a tarsal coalition. In older adults, a pronated foot may be due to a tendon rupture of the medial arch. Typically, pronated feet are a very flexible and an inefficient foot type. Supinated feet, on the other hand, are usually rigid and stiff. The high arch in a supinated foot can be difficult to treat when foot problems occur.

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For more information on this topic, stop by your local running store, podiatrists office or local pedorthics facility.

About the Author

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM, C.Ped is a board certified foot and ankle surgeon. Dr. Oster is also board certified in pedorthics. Dr. Oster is medical director of Myfootshop.com and is in active practice in Granville, Ohio.