What a Pain in the Arch!
Comments (0) “Arch Pain” is a common term used by many to describe symptoms that may occur in the arch of the foot. One of the most common findings in a patient with arch pain is inflammation of the tissues within the midfoot (you know, that portion of the foot further down from the ankle and heel, but closer than the toes). You may know where the arch of the foot is on your own feet, but what is involved in forming this arch? A tight band of tissue called the “plantar fascia” connects the heel bone to the toes, forming the arch. Now, this band of tissue is very important in ensuring that the foot performs as it should mechanically, and it is important in walking because of its role in transferring weight from the heel to the toes with each step. When this arch-forming tissue becomes irritated and inflamed, it causes that infamous “arch pain” and patients may experience severe pain even with the simplest of movements.
Knowing that the plantar fascia is an important structure in forming the arch of the foot should lead you to believe that plantar fasciitis (a commonly used medical term meaning inflammation of the plantar fascia) is the most common cause of arch pain. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain right away in the morning when you first get out of bed or pain with long walks or prolonged periods of standing. If you experience arch pain early in the morning, chances are it is due to the plantar fascia becoming tight while you sleep. Upon waking up and walking to the kitchen for your morning cup of coffee, the plantar fascia is still tight from your slumber and it gets irritated when it stretches out during walking. This in turn makes the already difficult walk (depending on the amount of sleep you get) to the kitchen even more difficult due to intense pain.
The best treatment for plantar fasciitis is often a combination of some simple stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil, and inserts for your shoes to help support your arches, which reduces the amount of stretching of your plantar fascia. If these conservative treatments aren’t enough to take care of your pain, you should see a podiatrist to discuss other options.
Another cause of arch pain involves collapse of the midfoot, placing excess stress on the arch. This stress affects the plantar fascia, as well as some tendons running along your ach and the joints of the midfoot. Over time, excessive stress on the midfoot joints can result in arthritis.
There is a particular tendon that helps support the arch and prevents it from collapsing. When excess stress is placed on the midfoot, this tendon becomes overstressed, which can result in tearing, inflammation, pain and eventual breakdown of the tendon. This may require therapy, being placed in a cast, or even surgery.
If you are experiencing any of the discussed symptoms of arch pain, make an appointment with your local podiatrist to determine the best course for relieving your pain and making your morning walk to the kitchen easier!
