The foot contains 26 small bones which are connected by numerous muscles, ligament, and tendons. These bones are positioned to form arches in the feet. The arches of the feet are important structures for stabilizing the body and distributing weight properly throughout the foot. Excessive stress on the feet from trauma, obesity, or abnormal function of the ankle, knee, or hip may lead to pain in the arches. Problems may include:
•Tendonitis
•Ligament sprains
•Stress fractures
•Plantar Fasciitis
Pain in the foot arch can affect your exercise routine
Click here to learn more about the anatomy of your feet. This article about biomechanics may also help you understand why you are experiencing pain in your feet.
Pain in the middle of the foot may be due to any of the issues listed above. Stress on the structures which support the arches of the feet may become inflamed and cause pain at times. Pain in the middle of the foot may be due to problems in the medial arch. If the arch height is too high or too low, pain may develop. If you want to learn more about the tendons of the foot, go to this ARTICLE.
Muscles and Tendons of the Foot
Treatment of arch pain will likely depend on the cause of the pain. A home remedy for foot pain is rolling the bottom of the foot over a frozen water bottle. This is a safe easy way to help with pain and inflammation. If pain persists, an evaluation by a physician may be warranted to determine the source of the pain. Depending on the cause, treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or custom orthotics. Physical therapy treatment may include stretching, strength training, ultrasound, soft tissue massage, or laser therapy.
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of arch pain in the foot. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue the runs from the bottom of the heel to the big toe. It helps to support the arches of the foot. Excessive stress on the plantar fascia can lead to inflammation and pain, usually heel pain. Some describe the pain as feeling like, “stepping on a nail”. The Symptoms typically include foot pain in the morning. Treatment typically includes ice, stretching, and physical therapy. Extreme cases may warrant steroid injections or even surgery. If you want to learn more about this condition, watch this VIDEO
While some over the counter arch supports may help with pain and discomfort, sometimes custom orthotics are recommended to get a proper fit. While these supports will not cure flat feet, they often decrease symptoms and pain. Click here for JOI Orthotics Services.
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Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute has innovative treatment options to help with Arch Pain. The JOI Ankle and Foot Team is made up of Board Certified Specialists with decades of experience to treat you. Whether you are a Jacksonville Jaguar or an Average Joe…..We’ll Treat You Like a Pro! For a physical therapy or a foot orthotic appointment, please call 904-858-7045.
JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.
You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.
To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
By: Ehren Allen, PT, Certified Manual Therapist
