Experiencing Pain in the Arch of Your Foot? Causes & Treatments

Experiencing Pain in the Arch of Your Foot? Causes & Treatments

Arch pain can result from one or a combination of conditions that develop in the sole. For example, patients at Urgent Footcare often describe a tightness, pulling, strain, burning, or ripping sensation through the mid arch of the foot, in front of the heel but behind the ball of the foot. 

The pain in the arch can come on suddenly thanks to increased walking, a sporting event, or progressively over a while from things like the wrong shoes. Arch pain can be present every day and can be consistently present. This can interfere with day-to-day activity in a challenging way.

In extreme cases, the pain can be excruciating and cause burning and throbbing in bed at night. The soft tissue in the arch can be torn, which can be detected via ultrasound or MRI.

If you’re unsure why you have that pain in your arch, here are a few medical conditions, causes, and treatments that may cause it and some tips to prevent it from happening in the first place. 

Medical Conditions and Causes

Arch pain is caused by weakened or strained ligaments associated with the bones in the arch of your foot. The pain is primarily driven by wearing shoes with inadequate support, standing or walking for long periods, or overuse of the feet during work or sports.

Pain in the arch of your foot can also happen because of a particular quirk in how you walk or stand. For example, if your feet don’t move in a straight enough line when you walk, this can cause some muscles in your arches to work harder than others, leading to pain.

There are many other possible causes of arch pain, but the distinguishing factor we see at Urgent Footcare is Plantar fasciitis (see below for more details). Direct injury and muscle strains are just some examples of other possible reasons for this condition. Ligament sprains and tightness or lack of tightness in joints in your foot are also possibilities for causing this pain. Some of the most common reasons for arch pain include the following:

• Weight Gain
• Aging
• Overuse
• Structural Damage
• Neurological Conditions
• Physical stress
• Stretching
• Immobilization boot

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

As one of the most common factors that cause arch pain, let’s dive into what plantar fasciitis is. 

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of arch pain, and one of the most common orthopedic complaints reported. It’s caused by inflammation, overuse, or injury to the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the ligament that connects the front of your foot to your heel.

The pain from plantar fasciitis typically develops gradually and worsens with activity. The more you put stress on your feet; the more likely symptoms will develop.

Prevention

Many home remedies for arch pain can also help prevent pain from returning. These include wearing supportive shoes with shoe inserts or arch supports and avoiding going barefoot or wearing unsupportive shoes, like flip-flops. 

Wearing unsupportive footwear on hard surfaces for prolonged periods creates many conditions that lead to arch pain.

Stretch regularly, beginning with your calves and working up to your feet. Stretching these areas can help relieve foot pain and reduce your risk for it later on. 

Invest in anti-fatigue mats if you regularly stand in one spot for extended periods (such as at the kitchen sink). If you have a standing desk, get one for work, too—these are especially helpful if you spend a lot of time on your feet throughout the day at work.

Treatments

While a variety of factors can cause arch pain, there are many home remedies and treatments available to help relieve your symptoms.

Resting is one of the most effective ways to help your body heal from arch pain. It allows the tissues in your foot to relax and recover from any inflammation or damage that may have been caused by overuse or trauma. Applying ice to the area will help reduce swelling and pain, preventing further injury. You can also avoid additional swelling by wearing compression socks or using an ice pack for 15 minutes every hour for up to five days after your injury.

Urgent Footcare’s Custome orthotics are clinically proven to provide immediate and all-day relief from arch pain by redistributing pressure away from sensitive areas on your feet, reducing stress on your arches, and providing more support where it’s needed most. Physical therapy may also be helpful for those with arch pain caused by overuse and strenuous physical activity.

Try Out Our Custom Orthotics

Orthotics, or shoe inserts, are removable insoles that provide pressure relief and shock absorption. Pre-made orthotics are commonly prescribed for patients with flat feet, overpronation, and other foot conditions. 

Urgent Footcare’s custom orthotics are more specific to the needs of each patient and can be used to cure arch pain that has been plaguing for years. Call us today to schedule an appointment with a specialist who can create the orthotic that fits you perfectly.

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