Hip and Back Pain at Foot Foundation
Hip and back pain are often thought of as “separate” from the feet, but the lower limb functions as one connected chain. The way the foot strikes the ground directly affects forces through the ankle, knee, hip, and spine.
Flat feet or excessive pronation can rotate the leg inwards, straining the hip and lower back.
High arches or poor shock absorption can transmit excessive force upwards.
Leg length differences or gait asymmetry can lead to pelvic tilt, hip pain, or lower back discomfort.
At Foot Foundation, we specialise in identifying these foot-driven causes of hip and back pain. By correcting mechanics with orthotics, footwear optimisation, and gait retraining, we provide long-term relief and reduce recurrence.
Common Hip & Back Conditions We Treat
Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis): inflammation of the bursa at the outer hip, often linked to biomechanics and running.
Hip Impingement & Labral Pathology: structural irritation of the hip joint, worsened by poor gait or pelvic mechanics.
Sciatica & Nerve-Related Pain: nerve compression in the lower back causing leg pain, aggravated by poor foot mechanics.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction & Lower Back Pain: pelvic or lumbar pain linked to poor alignment, leg length differences, or flat feet.
Our Approach
At Foot Foundation, we use:
Comprehensive gait & biomechanical assessment – identifying how foot function affects hip and back load.
Custom orthotics – correcting abnormal motion and improving pelvic/hip alignment.
Footwear advice – ensuring shoes provide stability, support, and cushioning.
Rehabilitation & strengthening – referral to physiotherapy for gluteal/core programs.
Shockwave therapy – used in selected hip bursitis or tendon-related cases.
Education & prevention – load management, posture awareness, training modification.
Treatment is available at all Foot Foundation clinics: Rosedale, Takapuna, Remuera, Botany, Hamilton, and Tauranga.
