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ARCH PAIN

Arch pain or strain is inflammation or burning at the arch of the foot upon weight bearing. It is most commonly caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia, the broad band of fibrous tissue that connects the heel to the forefoot.

The arch serves as a shock absorber for the rest of the body; each foot bears all of a person’s body weight - one foot at a time - before switching weight bearing over to the other foot. This places a great deal of pressure and strain on the plantar fascia. Over time, without adequate protection under the arch, the plantar fascia will become stiff and inflamed and the arch will begin hurting or falling.

Other names or similar foot conditions:

• Planter fasciatis
• Sudden fallen arch vs. a life long flat foot type

Symptoms:

• Pain in the arch

Signs to look for:

• Pain worse upon taking the first step upon waking or after sitting for a period of time
• Arch seems to be falling

Possible Causes:

• Normal wear and tear over time resulting from not having support under the arch
• Increase in walking, recreational activities or walking for long periods on flat, hard surfaces

Goals:

• Heal the inflammation in the arch
• Restore flexibility to the plantar fascia
• Provide ongoing support in the arch

Solutions:

Arch Supports:

• Bio-Orthotics Winstep or Sundance exercising support with metatarsal lift
• Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support, such as the Bio-Orthotics Journey or Silhouette, for use when shoes cannot accommodate the Winstep or Sundance exercising support

• Extra depth shoes with firm heel counter, connecting shanks, and stiff rocker soles
• For exercise, wear shoes with titanium springs
• MBT physiological shoe
• Negative heel shoe
• Go barefoot on a minimal basis only

Activities:

• Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling