The foot takes the brunt of your weight every day, helping you to walk, move and perform activities. The skin over the foot is tough to protect the interior structures. There are actually three arches on the bottom of the foot, and the skin on each arch comes in contact with materials in shoes as well as any objects on the ground when walking barefoot. This skin may react to contact or irritation by producing skin lumps and rashes.
Identification
Eczema can occur on the bottom arch of the foot, causing dry, red skin and leading to bumps and blisters. Your skin may also be itchy and crusted over. Eczema is an inflammatory condition that can be caused by genetic or environmental factors. People with eczema may have more frequent outbreaks during times of emotional stress. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body, including the arch of the foot, but it is not contagious.
Dermatitis
Red bumps on the arch of the foot may be caused by a reaction to something in your shoe. According to Penn State, this is known as shoe contact dermatitis and is caused when the body reacts to materials manufactured as part of your shoe or sometimes to powders that you put inside of your shoe. Shoe contact dermatitis may cause red bumps on the bottom of your foot, which sometimes itch. Without identifying the allergen and treating the cause, shoe contact dermatitis can lead to a bacterial skin infection.
Plantar Warts
Bumps on the soles and the arches of your feet may be caused by plantar warts, an infection of the human papillomavirus. Plantar warts cause small bumps that may become irritated, causing redness and pain. Like many other types of infections, plantar warts flourish in warm, dark environments such as within your shoe or sock. The virus may be spread through contact if you walk barefoot or when using a shower.
Considerations
Red bumps on the arch of your foot may appear for various reasons and, depending on the cause, may need treatment to reduce symptoms and prevent spread to other areas. Your doctor may prescribe a topical cream for treatment, as some types of skin bumps are caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. You may also need a topical steroid cream to reduce inflammation, particularly if the bumps are painful, irritating or cause difficulty with walking.
Prevention
Depending on the cause, you may be able to prevent red bumps from accumulating on the arches of your feet. By protecting your feet and avoiding some materials that may cause an allergic reaction, you can reduce the incidence of an outbreak. Be aware of materials that may cause an allergic reaction, including some foods, cigarette smoke or pollen. Avoid wearing socks made of fibers that may irritate your skin, such as wool. Keep your feet clean and dry and avoid walking barefoot when you have cuts or irritation on the bottoms of your feet.
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