Why Do My Arches Hurt?
At Caring Podiatry, we see plenty of patients coming in with serious arch pain. However, despite the problem’s pervasive nature, we also find that the causes making it manifest are poorly understood.
Patient education is a core part of our mission. That’s why this blog post will explore some of the most typical causes of arch pain, dispelling the mystery surrounding your aches and offering straightforward advice on how to handle them.
Common Causes of Arch Pain
Some of the most typical sources of arch pain include:
Overuse: Athletes, people who stand for extended periods, and those who recently increased their activity level are all susceptible to overuse injuries of the arch muscles and tendons.
Improper Footwear: Shoes lacking arch support can strain the arch muscles and lead to pain. Worn-out shoes also lose their shock absorption capabilities.
Flat Feet or High Arches: Both structural abnormalities can cause imbalances in how weight is distributed across the foot, leading to arch pain.
Are My Inserts Helping? How Do I Know?
Thinking of grabbing some over-the-counter inserts? Consider the following shortcomings first:
OTC inserts offer generic support, so they might not address the unique needs of your foot structure.
These products often use less durable materials, which compress faster than those used to create custom orthotics.
Complex foot problems may require specific biomechanical adjustments that over-the-counter inserts simply can't provide.
Whatever you decide, remember:
Even the best inserts lose their effectiveness over time as the materials compress. Replace over-the-counter inserts every 6 months to maintain optimal support.
While custom orthotics provide the most targeted support, they can flatten out with wear. Schedule adjustments with your podiatrist every 6 months to ensure a proper fit and continued pain relief.
Selecting inserts designed for your arch type (flat, high, or neutral) produces better outcomes overall.
When in doubt, let a podiatrist help out! A DPM has the specialized skills to identify the source of your pain and get you moving toward recovery quickly.
If your arches ache, contact our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) or Neptune (732-455-8700) offices to make an appointment. Podiatrists Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, and Mark Fillari will be happy to assist you with the warmth, compassion, and expertise that Caring Podiatry is known for.