Arch Pain

Arch pain is often felt as a burning sensation under the long arch of the foot.

There are a number of causes of this. The most common is plantar fasciitis, but such pain can also be due to the strain of any structure in the arch of the foot.

Causes of arch pain:
The more common specific causes of arch pain can be:
* plantar fasciitis (strain of the plantar fascia - a strong ligament that supports the arch)
* tarsal tunnel syndrome (a pinched nerve at the ankle that refers pain to the arch)
* foot strain from a pronated foot or flat foot
* There can be osteoarthritis of the joints in the midfoot that can cause arch pain.
* Overuse - running, walking, hard surfaces and/or OFAD (on feet all day), usually combined with inadequate or non-supportive footwear.

Self-management of arch pain:
The initial treatment for arch pain, especially if it is of sudden onset, is the use of ice to reduce the swelling. Later, heat and anti-inflammatory gels can be a big help.
Activity should be modified - if you stand a lot at work, see if you can use seating more; if you run a lot, consider swimming or cycling for a while.
Use footwear that is supportive in the midfoot and heel area.

Arch pain management:
An accurate diagnosis from a health professional is important early in the management of arch pain.
If the symptoms are mild, management will generally just consist of advice about fitting footwear, stretching exercises for the calf muscles and arch, and if indicated, the use of foot orthotics.
If the symptoms are more severe, tape can be used to restrict motion and support the arch; anti-inflammatory medication can be used to give some relief. Orthotics are usually indicated.
If there is no initial response to treatment, further investigations may be necessary to check for conditions such as arthritis or a pinched nerve.

Prevention of arch pain:
1 - Consideration needs to be given to the cause and strategies put in place to prevent it happening again.
2 - Advice should be sought on the adequacy of footwear.
3 - Stretching exercises should be continued long after the symptoms are gone.
4 - Foot orthoses should be used if structural imbalances are present.
5 - Activity levels and types of activities (occupational and sporting) need to be considered and modified accordingly.