Arch pain is the term used to describe symptoms that occur under the arch of the foot.
When a patient has arch pain they usually have inflammation of the soft-tissues within the midfoot.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include pain early in the morning and pain with long walks or prolonged standing.
Illustration by Nusha Ashjaee, Verywell
When awakening and walking in the morning, the fascia is still tight and prone to irritation when stretched.
When walking or standing for long periods, the plantar fascia becomes inflamed and painful.
When this occurs, a stress fracture is a possible injury to the bone.
Stress fractures typically cause pain that worsens with increased activity.
When a stress fracture occurs the bone needs rest.
These ligaments can be injured by twisting or landing awkwardly while walking or running.
Ligament injuriestypically occur after an unusual foot movement and cause immediate pain.
Swelling may also occur.
Most ligament sprains will improve with rest.
Sometimes immobilizing the foot can help with treatment.
In some rare situations, surgery may be needed for treatment.
One example is aLisfranc injuryof the midfoot.
Tendonitis
Inflammation of the tendons that pass along the foot can also cause pain in the arch.
The two most commonly injured tendons that cause arch pain are thetibialis posteriorand theperoneal tendons.
Both tendons are important at controlling movements of the foot and ankle.
X-rays can give a useful assessment of the alignment of the bones of the foot.
Ensuring proper fitting footwear with good support can be one helpful step.
Fortunately, most people with arch pain can find effective relief of symptoms with a few simple steps.
Once people have arch pain, they should take steps to prevent the recurrence of this problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes.
Stretches that target the Achilles tendon may also provide relief.
In some instances, yes.
The pain is often in the middle of the foot, but tightness could cause arch pain as well.
These may be triggered by sports or overuse.
An unusually high arch (cavus foot) can also cause pain when walking.
2015;6:87-95. doi:10.2147/OAJSM.S39512
Clare MP.Lisfranc injuries.Curr Rev MusculoskeletMed.
2011;4(1).
doi:10.1186/1757-1146-4-19
Neufeld SK, Cerrato R.Plantar fasciitis: evaluation and treatment.J Am Acad Orthop Surg.
2017;25(7):469-79. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-15-00556
