By Richard Rozelle, DPM
Table of Contents
Your arch stretches from the base of your toes to your heel and helps to bear weight, absorb shock, create balance, and stabilize movement. Arch pain is common, especially in athletes and runners, but it can also affect those who are less active.
Arch pain can cause pain in the heel and ball of the foot as well as on the top. The pain may be worse when standing or walking and more intense in the morning when you first get out of bed.
Arch Pain Causes
Arch pain can be the result of structural issues aggravated by aging, overuse, physical stress, and weight gain.
The muscles, ligaments, tendons, or bones in the arch can be injured. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of arch pain as are adult–acquired flatfoot and overpronation. Even a naturally high arch, called cavus foot, can cause pain and frequent ankle sprains.
Easing Arch Pain
Arch pain can be relieved with special custom–made orthotic shoe inserts. Shoes with extra ankle support can help too. Resting the foot and icing the area can ease the pain as can stretching exercises.
Over–the–counter medications and physical therapy can help inflammation and pain, as well as switching to more supportive shoes will ease sore arches. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
If these conservative methods don’t help, give us a call or visit our offices for professional help!