Arch Pain
Mr. Arch Custom Orthotics
Causes of Pain in the Arch of the Foot and Stretches and Treatments to Improve Recovery
Arch pain is often a symptom of an underlying condition affecting your foot. Left untreated, it could become chronic or long-term. It’s important to see your doctor and begin treatment if the arch pain persists for more than a few days. Isolating the cause is the first step toward finding the cure.
Overview
Arch pain is a common foot concern. It affects runners and other athletes, but it can also occur in people who are less active. The arch of the foot stretches from the base of your toes to your heel, and plays an important role in any activity where you’re on your feet. The arch helps:
- absorb shock
- bear weight
- create balance
- stabilize movement
- adapt to changes in terrain
Arch pain may be felt in the ball and heel of the foot. You may also feel pain in the top of your foot, or even in your ankles, knees, hips, legs, and back. Depending on the underlying cause, the pain may be worse when walking or standing, or during or after activities involving your feet. It may also be more intense in the morning when you wake.
Plantar fasciitis
If you have plantar fasciitis, you may feel pain and stiffness in the heel and arch. Pain is typically worse upon awakening and becomes more painful after prolonged standing or activities where you’re on your feet.
If you frequently experience plantar fasciitis, you may need to wear a different type of shoe or get inserts to provide additional comfort and support to your foot. Stretches can also help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
With PTTD, arch pain is likely to extend along the back of the calf and inner aspect of the ankle. You may also have ankle swelling. Pain typically occurs during activities, such as running, not afterward.
You may need to wear an ankle brace or custom shoe insert to treat PTTD. Physical therapy may also help. In some cases, you may need surgery to treat the condition.
Overpronation
Cavus foot
Recovery
The amount of time it takes to recover depends on the underlying cause of your arch pain. It may take 3–12 months to recover from conditions like plantar fasciitis, even with treatment. If surgery is necessary, it may take a year after the surgery to get back to your normal. It may be necessary to wear a cast for weeks or months. If your doctor prescribes orthotics, you may need to wear them indefinitely.
How will your doctor treat your arch pain?
Your doctor may recommend additional treatments depending on your diagnosis. Treatments may include:
- Prescribed supportive shoes with specially designed shoe inserts or arch supports, or customized foot orthotics.
- Prescription-strength NSAIDs or cortisone injections
- Physical therapy
Your doctor may recommend that you lose weight and temporarily refrain from certain physical activities, like prolonged standing, running, or high-impact sports.
Avoid unsupportive footwear
Walking barefoot or wearing unsupportive shoes, such as flip-flops, may aggravate pain and make your condition worse. If you usually go barefoot around the house, consider getting supportive shoes that you can wear around the house, instead.
When should you see a doctor?
Occasional arch pain is typically no cause for concern. In these cases, you may be able to find relief from home remedies, like soaking your foot, massage, or rest.
If you frequently experience pain, of if the pain doesn’t improve or gets worse with home remedies, talk to your doctor. Arch pain can progress to more serious foot condition, and may even lead to damage in your back, knees, and ankles. If you have diabetes, it’s especially important to stay on top of foot injury or pain.
How can you prevent arch pain?
Many of the home remedies for arch pain can also be used to help prevent pain from returning.
Wear supportive shoes with shoe inserts or arch supports, and avoid going barefoot or wearing unsupportive shoes, like flip-flops. Wearing unsupportive footwear on hard surfaces for prolonged periods creates many of the conditions that lead to arch pain.
Stretch. Begin a regular regimen of stretching exercises. Stretching your calves and the rest of your legs can help your feet, too, so don’t forget to include these areas. Invest in anti-fatigue mats. If you regularly stand in the same spot for extended periods of time, these mats can help reduce your risk for foot pain. Consider putting one on the floor in front of your kitchen sink if you spend a lot of time doing dishes. If you have a standing desk, get one for work, too.
