Arch pain can be due to a number of causative factors. However, when someone has a high arch (Pes Cavus) or low arch (Pes Planus), arch pain or fatigue can ensue. Standing for long periods of time or wearing footwear that is not appropriate to the foot shape or activity can exacerbate any arch concerns. Many people opt for added arch supports in their shoes but often don’t investigate why they might need them. Read on to learn more about flat feet and high-arched feet, and how arch pain is related.
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Symptoms
Those with high-arched feet are prone to pain in the ball of the foot and arch fatigue. This is because the metatarsal bones are at a higher angle to the ground and cause undue pressure on the sole of the forefoot. Also, the arch, which is high, is left unsupported without an orthotic and can tire easily. Supportive soft tissue structures stretch and weaken with time. This can be exacerbated by pregnancy where ligaments in the body loosen in preparation for labour and delivery. Those with flat feet are prone to over-pronation in gait, tendon fatigue along the inner ankle, and arch/heel pain under the foot. Sometimes, bunions are associated with very flat or overly pronated feet. The arch pain experienced with flat feet tends to be dull and achy after a long day standing, unless the plantar fascia becomes involved. In that case, the pain will be sharp, localized to the heel and present especially in the morning after rest.
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Causes
The cause for arch pain or fatigue in someone with a high or low arch is often due to genetics, poor footwear choices, the absence of arch supports, injury, arthritis, overuse or a demanding lifestyle. In more rare cases, arch pain can be due to a fracture, strain or sprain in the midfoot. Sometimes, a tendon that runs near the arch, such as the posterior tibial tendon, can become damaged or diseased and cause arch pain. When arch pain is present, it is typically dull or achy. Any sudden sharp pain should be considered an urgent appointment. And arch pain should not radiate elsewhere. This would require an investigation into nerve tissue involvement.
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Treatment
An assessment by a lower limb clinician is important to investigate the cause for the arch pain. If it is due to a high or low medial arch, it is important to consider reducing activities to allow for healing, and optimizing arch support with an orthotic or insole. With any foot pain or discomfort, footwear should be evaluated and a comprehensive footwear fitting should be undertaken. Depending on the location of the arch pain, a cortisone injection or shockwave therapy may be effective. Cross frictional massage of arch tissues may relieve any scarring from injury or surgery and can lessen swelling and pain. Ice and anti-inflammatory medications remain a staple in addressing inflammatory pain. Book your appointment at BioPed for a foot health and shoe evaluation.
