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Nov 16, 2007 - Arch PainBack
ARCH PAIN
Definition:
The term arch pain (sometimes referred to as arch strain) is an inflammation and/or burning sensation at the arch of the foot.
Cause:
There are many different factors that can cause arch pain.
Frequently the condition is associated with plantar fasciitis.
The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue located along the bottom surface of the foot that runs from the heel to the forefoot.
Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia, usually due to over-pronation (flat feet), can cause plantar fasciitis. The inflammation caused by the plantar fascia being stretched away from the heel often leads to pain in the heel and arch areas. Pain associated with plantar fasciitis is apparent first thing in the morning when you get out of bed and after a period of rest or sitting and relieved during or after activity. If this condition is left untreated and strain on the longitudinal arch continues, a bony protrusion may develop, known as a heel spur. It is important to treat the condition promptly before it worsens.
Over pronation may also be the cause of arch pain. When you over pronate the joints within the feet become unstable. This means the muscles and ligaments have to work harder and may become easily tired. In contrast in this case the pain is worse after or during activity and relieved by rest.
Yet another condition which can give rise to arch pain is posterior tibial tendonitis. However with this condition the pain is also present in other parts of the foot and along the course of the tendon. This condition is discussed in more detail under a separate heading.
A structural imbalance in the foot can also be the direct cause. Some rare and obscure condition such a a deep growth, fractures and Plantar fibramotosis and direct physical injuries should also be considered.
Treatment & Prevention:
Arch pain resulting from know cause and especially those associated with a biomechanical foot condition can be easily treated. The key is to determine what is causing the pain. Refer to section on plantar fasciitis, over pronation and posterior tibial tendonitis for more information.
If the condition is due to an injury, then rest and local treatment is advocated and may require x-rays to determine the nature of the injury and rule out other damage.
If the condition is associated with other unknown causes or growths a medical assessment and tests to investigate further are advocated.
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