The foot is a complex structure consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints and a network of over 120 muscles, nerves, blood vessels, ligaments and tendons. According to HealthCentral.com, these structures work together to support body weight, absorb shock and propel us forward to walk, run and jump. The arch, located between the heel and ball of the foot, is subjected to a great deal of stress daily and can develop symptoms of pain.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a broad, tough ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the ball of the foot, maintaining the integrity of the arch. According to HealthCentral.com, the most common cause of arch pain is plantar fasciitis, responsible for 1 million office visits per year. The plantar fascia can become irritated and inflamed from overuse injuries, causing a dull ache or burning pain under the arch that is worse in the morning upon rising and decreases with activity. Treatment typically consists of stretching exercises and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The tarsal tunnel is a small space, covered by a broad ligament called the flexor retinaculum, located on the inside of the ankle where the posterior tibial nerve, small blood vessels and tendons enter the foot from the leg. Compression of the posterior tibial nerve in this small space can cause symptoms of pain, according to the Foot Health Facts website. The pain may be tingling or burning, or it might feel like an electric shock in the arch of the foot. It can also cause numbness and a shooting pain in some people. The symptoms may come on suddenly, after long periods of standing, walking or exercising. Treatment consists of rest, ice and elevation of the affected foot, along with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Wearing custom arch supports, called orthotics, may help relieve the symptoms.
Adult Acquired Flatfoot
As the foot moves through its normal motions, the arch will flatten out in order to absorb shock effectively. According to PodiatryNetwork.com, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, or PTTD, results from the gradual stretching and tearing of the posterior tibial tendon and the ligaments of the arch, resulting in a permanently flattened foot called adult acquired flatfoot. This condition is progressive and usually affects one foot, although in some people it can affect both feet. It typically occurs in those over 60---and in women more often than men. Early treatment consists of rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. As the condition progresses, total immobilization in a cast or brace may be necessary. Severe cases can require surgery to correct.
Cavus Foot
A cavus foot is a condition where the arch is higher than normal. According to PremierPodiatry.com, most people with high-arched feet are born with them, but some will develop them over time in conjunction with a neurological disorder, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and muscular dystrophy. Pain can develop in the arch when walking or standing because not as much shock is absorbed by the foot with each step. Treatment includes custom-made orthotics to increase shock absorption and shoe modifications.
