Arch Pain Has Many Causes

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While we tend to take our feet for granted, they are truly amazing structures that absorb a lot of punishment in the course of a day. One of the most amazing parts of your foot is the arch structure which is actually composed of three main elements: the transverse arch that runs across the middle, and the two longitudinal arches that run along either side from the front to the back.

With all of the other components that make up your foot arch (tendons, ligaments, muscles, etc.), a wide variety of ailments can cause pain and discomfort.

Arches are characterized by their depth (or lack thereof) and individuals who have improperly treated high or low arches are most susceptible to arch problems. Medium or neutral arches are the least problematic.

3 of the most common causes of arch pain include the following:

  1. Fractures—Stress fractures are small breaks that can occur in bones that help support the arch and they may be difficult to diagnose and treat without the help of your foot doctor. Stress fractures often occur slowly over time, and the cause may not be immediately evident.

  2. Plantar fasciitis—Inflammation of the plantar fascia is another frequent source of arch pain and this condition can also cause pain in the back of the heel where it connects to the heel bone.

  3. Poorly fitting footwear—Your arches require proper support to carry your weight without causing injury, so be certain to have your arch type and gait mechanics evaluated by your podiatrist to ensure that you have properly fitted shoes. A computerized gait analysis will show any tendency you may have to under or over pronate. Custom orthotic inserts can alleviate these problems and help align your spine to avoid knee, hip, and back trouble.

If you are experiencing arch pain, we highly recommend that you consult with our board certified podiatrist for the proper diagnosis and treatment. At E.J. Nemet Podiatry in Twinsburg, E.J. Nemet, DPM, treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including sports injuries, pediatric foot problems, diabetic foot complications, nerve disorders, and toenail and skin conditions. With advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Dr. Nemet provides expert and compassionate care to patients in the Twinsburg and Beachwood areas. To contact us or to schedule an appointment, please call (234) 212-9940.

Common Foot ConditionsE.J. NEMET DPM, LLC