Why Do My Foot Arches Ache?

One of the most interesting aspects of the structure of your foot is the arch. It is composed of three main components including one transverse arch and the two longitudinal arches. There are also many tendons, ligaments, muscles, and bones that can suffer damage or injury, resulting in direct or radiating arch pain.

The basic arch types include high arches, low arches, and neutral or medium arches. Individuals with low and high arches are most susceptible to developing arch pain.

3 of the main causes of arch pain are:

  1. Improperly-fitted shoes—Your arches require the right support to carry your weight and avoid excess stress. Always have your walking gait and arch type evaluated by your foot doctor to determine what arch support is best for you. Custom made orthotic inserts can further support your arch and enhance your foot health in a variety of other ways.

  2. Stress fractures—These are small cracks in the bone that are caused by repetitive stress motions. These can occur from work, sports, and exercise, or by a single accident such as from dropping something heavy on your foot.

  3. Plantar fasciitisWhile plantar fasciitis is also a cause of heel pain, there can often be pain in the arch associated with this inflammatory condition. The plantar fascia is the wide band of connective tissue running along the bottom of your foot. This tissue can become swollen and even torn from overuse, walking or running on hard surfaces and by not having proper arch support.

If your arches are aching, see our podiatrist for the proper diagnosis and treatment. Call Podiatry Group of Annapolis located in Annapolis, Maryland With access to advanced technologies, Dr. James Mckee and Dr. Adam Weaver can help you manage all of your foot and ankle conditions. Call 410-224-4448 or make an appointment online today.