What can excessive pronation of the foot lead to?

Excessive pronation of the foot occurs when the foot rolls inward too much during walking or running. This biomechanical alteration can place increased stress on various structures in the lower extremities, especially the muscles and tendons in the legs. As a result, individuals with excessive pronation are at a heightened risk for developing shin splints, which are characterized by pain along the shinbone due to stress and overuse. This pronated position may also contribute to other injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and strains in the knee and hip.

The other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes associated with excessive pronation. For example, excessive pronation is unlikely to lead to increased arch height; instead, it often indicates a lower arch or a flat foot. Furthermore, it does not inherently cause decreased flexibility in the ankle; in fact, excessive pronation can sometimes lead to compensatory stiffness in the surrounding muscles. Finally, excessive pronation generally does not improve balance; in fact, it can disrupt the body's alignment and stability during movement, potentially leading to further balance issues.