Arch Pain & Arch Strain

The terms arch strain or pain refers to inflammation and/or a painful burning sensation on the bottom of the foot at the arch. This pain may be debilitating causing an individual to decrease activity to alleviate the pain.

Causes of Arch Pain & Arch Strain

There are many causes of arch pain or strain, including direct injury to the bottom of the foot, biomechanical abnormalities such as the way an individual walks, and most often the arch pain can be attributed to plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the long fibrous band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is excessively stretched. This can be caused by over-pronation known as flat feet.
The repetitive excessive stretching of the plantar fascia will cause the band to become inflamed and consequently lead to pain in the arch and heels. The pain is best described as worse in the morning with the first few steps out of bed and it is also worse after periods of rest. Once the band is relaxed, as with rest, the pain usually goes away. However, with immediate weightbearing after prolonged periods of rest, the pain is worsened because the band has suddenly been stretched to the maximum with our weight.
If arch strain and pain is left untreated, it may lead to the development of a bone spur. It is important to seek relief from these symptoms before the condition worsens.

Treatment of Arch Pain & Arch Strain

Arch pain, also referred to as arch strain can be easily treated with a good heel and arch support with shock absorbing soles. When the arch pain is attributed to over-pronation or flat feet, the Insoles may be used with a medial heel post and adequate arch support to relieve the pain and discomfort.

If symptoms of arch strain or arch pain persist, contact your foot doctor for further evaluation.

This material is only provided as helpful information and you should always go to your medical doctor or podiatrist for a professional diagnosis.