Arch Pain / Arch Strain
Arch Pain, also referred to as arch strain, refers to an inflammation and/or burning sensation at the arch of the foot. Many different factors can cause arch pain. A structural imbalance or an injury to the foot can often be the direct cause. Frequently, the cause is a common condition called Plantar Fasciitis.
The Plantar Fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue located along the bottom surface of the foot that runs from the heel to the forefoot. Excessive stretching of the Plantar Fascia, usually due to over-pronation (flat feet) causes Plantar Fasciitis (an inflammation of that fibrous tissue). |
The inflammation caused by the plantar fascia being stretched away from the heel often leads to pain in the heel and arch areas. The pain is often extreme in the morning when an individual first gets out of bed or after a prolonged period of rest.
If this condition is left untreated and strain on the longitudinal arch continues, a bony protrusion may develop, known as a heel spur. It is important to treat the condition promptly before it worsens. |
Treatment:
This is a common foot condition that can be easily treated. If you suffer from arch pain avoid high-heeled shoes whenever possible. Try to choose footwear with a stable and supportive heel counter; leather uppers; stable, straight, shock-absorbing outsoles; and removable insoles. When the arch pain is pronation-related (flat feet), an over-the-counter orthotic may be of great use to the patient. A good rule of thumb, or toe...is, if the pain has persisted less than 2-3 months and you are already wearing a good, solid and supportive shoe that fits you properly then a per made orthotic should do the trick. If the pain has been present for over 3 months it is more likely than not that your feet will require a custom pair of orthotics designed with proper arch support for treating the pain. This type of orthotic will control over-pronation, support the arch and provide the necessary relief.
Many people may want to consult their physician before seeing a board-certified pedorthist for non-surgical options, however it is at the patient's discretion to do so.
Make an appointment with our board-certified pedorthist for a consultation and to discuss your treatment options.
This is a common foot condition that can be easily treated. If you suffer from arch pain avoid high-heeled shoes whenever possible. Try to choose footwear with a stable and supportive heel counter; leather uppers; stable, straight, shock-absorbing outsoles; and removable insoles. When the arch pain is pronation-related (flat feet), an over-the-counter orthotic may be of great use to the patient. A good rule of thumb, or toe...is, if the pain has persisted less than 2-3 months and you are already wearing a good, solid and supportive shoe that fits you properly then a per made orthotic should do the trick. If the pain has been present for over 3 months it is more likely than not that your feet will require a custom pair of orthotics designed with proper arch support for treating the pain. This type of orthotic will control over-pronation, support the arch and provide the necessary relief.
Many people may want to consult their physician before seeing a board-certified pedorthist for non-surgical options, however it is at the patient's discretion to do so.
Make an appointment with our board-certified pedorthist for a consultation and to discuss your treatment options.