If you seem to have a biomechanical foot problem, determining your foot type is one of the first tests a foot specialist will carry out at your first appointment. To do this he/she would use either foot impression papers (ink based imprints), a foot impression box (a foam box which forms to the foot) or and advanced PC based foot scanning system.
Another way to carry out this test is to do the Wet Foot Test. This is not as comprehensive as the above tests (especially the computer based system), but is an interesting exercise and may aid you in selecting the correct insoles for minor foot problems.
If you have a painful biomechanical foot problem it is advised that you see a Podiatrist or Physiotherapist.
This is a simple test to find out your foot type. It can be done at home but should not replace the advice of foot health professional.
All you have to do is wet your feet (after a shower or bath is perfect) and stand on a surface that will leave a visible footprint. Ideal surfaces which will leave a good foot print include: brown paper, toilet paper, a bed sheet or even just the carpet (if its short-pile style). Light blue and beige surface colours seems to provide the best results.
Your footprint should fall into one of three categories.
The pronator type of foot rolls far inward during the weight-bearing phase of the stride. This foot type is characterized by a very low or flat arch. Heavier people often have feet in this category.
The supinator type of foot restricts the impact of the stride largely to the outer edges of the foot. This is often due to a very high, rigid arch.
The neutral type of foot is between the pronator and supinator types. It is the most common foot type. Runners with a neutral type of foot lands on the heel and rolls forward during the gait cycle until the impact is distributed evenly across the forefoot.
Another test to check your foot type and gait, is the shoe examination. Assessing the wear and tear on a well worn pair of shoes is a great indicator of whether you are a pronator, a supinator or have a normal gait pattern.
A small amount of shoe wear along the outside boarder at the heel is normal. If the heel of your shoes is worn on the inside (relative to the outside) you over pronate. Additionally, if the wear pattern shows only wear on the outside edge, you are likely to be a supinator.
