Since feet are the major weight-bearing part of the body, foot pain is common; half of the Americans polled by the American Podiatric Medical Association had missed a day of work because of foot problems. The foot contains 26 bones, up to 2 sesamoid bones, and many small structures which support and balance the weight of the entire body. Walking puts up to 1.5 times one's body weight on the foot, and humans walk an average of 1,000 miles per year.
Foot pain is not normal and should not be ignored; problems can affect the functioning of other parts of the body, including the hips, knees, and back. These are foot-related problems that may be related to biomechanical issues. Pedorthists, Osteopaths, Podiatrists, Chiropractors, physical therapists and sports medicine practitioners will often recommend custom foot orthoses as part of a treatment regimen.