Why do my arches hurt?
There may be many reasons why your arches
hurt. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of
arch pain, but tendonitis, tight calf muscles and flatfeet can also cause
arch pain. A poorly fitting shoe with a lack of support is a common cause of sore arches.
Plantar fasciitis is the tearing of a long
ligament on the bottom of the foot which results in
inflammation and pain at the heel and the arch. More information and images for plantar fasciitis.
Posterior tibial tendonitis: The posterior tibial tendon is a tendon
that starts in the calf and runs down the leg to attach
to the arch. This tendon holds up about 30% of the arch.
Those who have overpronation, flatfeet will place excess stress on
this tendon, which can result in tearing and inflammation.
Pain will occur in the central portion of the inside
of the arch and may run back into the ankle. The treatment
for this type of tendonitis is rest, ice, contrast soaks,
stretching, physical therapy and custom made orthotics. It is important
to place the foot in the proper position and take the
stress off the tendon to avoid problems in the future. We recommend seeing a podiatrist to be evaluated and treated for this problem. More information and images for posterior tibial tendonitis.
Flatfeet: Flatfeet and overpronation can cause arch pain. Not everyone who has flatfeet, has arch
pain, but many individuals with flatfeet has dull, achy pain in their arch after long periods of standing. More information and images on flatfeet. More information & images on pronation.
Tight calf muscle: When the calf muscle is tight, this causes stress through the arch. The foot compensates by pronating and this places additional forces through the plantar fascia and the arch, which can cause general arch pain, plantar fasciitis, posterior tibial tendonitis, bunions and ball of foot pain. This is one of the more common causes of general foot pain. More information & images on the common cause of foot problems.
Poor shoe fit: Commonly, general arch pain can be due to a poorly designed shoe with a lack of support. A supportive shoe with a good insert may help relieve general arch pain. More information, images and tips for choosing supportive shoes to alleviate arch pain.
Learn more about arch supports.
Product information for arch supports.
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