Question
I have walked with a severe limp on the right side (as a result of a crushing injury to my right foot); since 1979. Favoring my right foot resulted in arthritic inflamation of the left foot (as a result of over-use syndrom; diagnosed in 1991); causing a pronounce limp in booth feet.
Over time, I began to experience lower back stiffness, and pain at the end of each day. I would like to know if there is any clinical evidence to show any relationship between having a limp in one, or both feet, and the developement of lower back pain. Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Jerry,

Thanks for the question.  Your best bet would be to do a search on such topics and look up some journals such as JAMA or other orthopedic type journal sites.  There is no question that a chronic long term gait alteration will lead to spinal problems and pain.  It is similar to having the front end of a car out of alignment.  The tires wear down faster, the U joints go bad, etc..  With the human body and the joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments involved, structures wear down faster, chronic inflammation occurs, degenerative arthritis occurs prematurely.  

I am sorry that I don't have any documentation off the top of my head, but a little research will find what you need.

Dr. Boss