Arch Pain

Experiencing pain in the arch of your foot?  You are not alone.  Every year, millions of people experience pain in the arch, the slightly curved part of the foot that extends from right behind the toes to the heel.  There are many different causes of foot pain in the arch, from temporary to long-term causes.  Here are some questions you probably have if you are feeling arch foot pain.

What Causes Foot Pain in the Arch?

There are a wide variety of causes of pain in the arch of the foot.  Runners and other athletes in sports that are hard on the feet may experience arch foot pain after a strenuous workout.  Injuring any of the muscles, bones, or ligaments in your foot could also be a cause.  Weight gain, aging, overuse, neurological conditions, and physical stress can all be factors in foot pain in the arch.  If your feet have structural issues such as flat feet or high arches, you may feel discomfort in the arch.  

There are many conditions that result in pain in the arch of the foot, the majority of which are biomechanical in nature.  Plantar fasciitis is the most common.  This condition is caused by inflammation, overuse, or injury to the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs through the length of the foot.  Many athletes develop plantar fasciitis.  Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) can also cause foot pain in the arch.  This is also known as adult-acquired flat foot, and it is caused by injury to the posterior tibial tendon.  Other conditions that cause arch foot pain include overpronation, a type of flat foot caused by walking with the outer edge of the heel hitting the ground first, as well as cavus foot, where the arches of the feet are abnormally high.

How Can I Treat Arch Foot Pain?

Wearing better shoes is one of the best ways to lessen pain in the arch of the foot.  Wearing unsupportive footwear or not wearing shoes at all can make your arch foot pain worse.  Buying a pair of supportive shoes to wear around the house may help symptoms.

Other home remedies for foot pain in the arch include resting, stretching, and over the counter anti-inflammatory medication.  Refraining from activities that stress the arch for a short period of time is an important first step. You can also ice your feet to reduce inflammation and pain.  

When Should I See a Doctor for Pain in the Arch of the Foot?

If you are having pain in the arch of the foot very often and are not finding much relief through home remedies, you should see a Podiatrist.  This is particularly important if the way you are walking due to your arch pain is starting to hurt your back, knees, or ankles.  Your doctor will conduct a physical exam that may include x-rays or other scans in order to diagnose your foot pain in the arch condition. A full gait exam will provide information as to how your biomechanics play into your arch pain. You may be prescribed to continue treating your pain at home as well as some of the following treatment methods:

• Specially designed prescribed supportive shoes with inserts or arch supports
• Night splints
• Prescription-strength NSAIDs or cortisone injections
• Physical therapy
• Bracing
• Casting
• Surgery

If you are experiencing pain in the arch of the foot, Diablo Foot and Ankle can help.  Their expert Podiatrists can diagnose and treat you so you can get back to normal faster.  Call them today to schedule an appointment.