Arch/Pain Strain
Definition
The term arch pain (often referred to as arch strain) refers to an inflammation and/or burning sensation at the arch of the foot.
Arch pain is the term used to describe symptoms that occur under the arch of the foot. When a patient has arch pain they usually have inflammation of the tissues within the midfoot. The arch of the foot is formed by a tight band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes.
Cause
The arches are the primary structures of the body that absorb and return force to and from the body to the outside world when we are on our feet. When something happens to these structures, pain and injury may result.
There can be many causes of arch pain. Direct force trauma, ligament sprains, muscle strains, poor biomechanical alignment,stress fractures, overuse, or the tightness or lack of tightness of the joints in the foot may all cause pain in the arch.
The arch of the foot is composed of the longitudinal arch, running the length of the foot, and the transverse arch, which runs the width of the foot. The arch of the foot is comprised of 24 bones, fitting together by the structure of the bones and with fibrous tissues called ligaments that hold everything in place. The muscles of the foot, along with a large ligament called the plantar fascia, provide the secondary support to the foot.
The most common cause of arch pain is inflammation of the tissues in the midfoot. A main component of the arch is a tight band, connecting the heel to the toes, called the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is important for the transfer of weight from the heel to the toes. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, simple movements can become extremely painful, causing heel pain and arch pain.
Sprains, strains, bruises, and fractures can be the result of a single stress or a combination of direct force trauma. Direct force trauma injury could be someone stepping on your foot, which would result in a bruise. Direct force trauma can also damage the primary bones and secondary muscular structure of the arch. Sometimes lower leg injuries can cause arch pain since many of the muscles of the lower leg attach on or near the arch. If not taken care of, lower leg injury can lead to improper biomechanics of the feet and cause arch pain.
Treatment and Prevention
This extremely common condition responds very well to semi rigid foot orthotics, heel pads and lots of stretching of the calf/Achilles tendon. Use stable shoes which reduce pronation and offer support. Whenever the problem persists consult with your foot doctor.
This is a common foot condition that can be easily treated. Wear footwear with a reasonable heel, soft leather uppers, shock absorbing soles and removable foot insoles. When the arch pain is pronation related (flat feet), an orthotic designed insert with a medial heel post and proper arch support is recommended for treating the pain. This type of orthotic will control over-pronation, support the arch and provide the necessary relief. Avoid high-heeled shoes.
When you first begin to notice discomfort or pain in the area, you can treat yourself with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE).Over-the-counter medications may also be used to reduce discomfort and pain.
Compression and elevation will help prevent any swelling of the affected tissues.
There are two types of over-the-counter medication that may help with the pain and swelling of arch pain. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) will help with the pain, and a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen will help with the pain and battle the inflammatory response. Caution should be taken when using these drugs, and dosage should not exceed the labeled directions. Those who have chronic medical conditions or who are taking other medications should consult with their doctor regarding the most appropriate type of pain and/or anti-inflammatory medications. Commercial over-the-counter arch supports or orthotics may also help to ease arch pain.
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