High Arches and Related Foot Pain

What You Need To Know

Understanding high arches, arch pain, and how we diagnose the cause.

Understanding High Arches and Arch Pain

The foot’s arch is formed by the tarsal and metatarsal bones and is strengthened by tendons and ligaments. Its job is to help the foot support and distribute the body’s weight. When the arch is higher than normal, pressure can concentrate on the heel and ball of the foot, leading to pain, instability, and strain on the surrounding soft tissues.

Arch pain is usually caused by inflammation of the soft tissues in the midfoot called the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a thick tissue on the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel bone. Several foot problems can cause arch pain, including plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, sprains, and tendonitis.

Plantar fasciitis causes arch pain first thing in the morning when rising from bed as well as after long periods of standing. Stress fractures are tiny fractures caused by repetitive overuse and produce pain that worsens with activity. A ligament sprain causes pain and swelling immediately after landing awkwardly or twisting the foot. Inflammation of the tendons in the foot may also cause arch pain.

Because there are many sources of arch pain, a careful diagnosis by a foot doctor is the best way to identify the problem. At Precision Foot and Ankle Centers, we will examine your foot carefully and make imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs if necessary. If arch pain is limiting your daily activities, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation so we can pinpoint the cause and start you on the right treatment plan.

Treatment, Prevention, and Home Care

Our goals in treating arch pain are to relieve swelling and inflammation and to ease the pressure from the irritated area. Resting the foot helps reduce inflammation, and crutches, a walking boot, or activity modifications can allow the foot to recover. Applying ice eases pain and inflammation, and ice massage, such as rolling the foot over a frozen bottle of water, can be effective. Anti-inflammatory medications may also help, but check with your doctor first before starting a new medicine.

Changing footwear is often a key part of managing high arches. Look for shoes with extra cushioning and more arch support. For plantar fasciitis, pain can be relieved with stretching exercises and anti-inflammatory medication. A night splint that keeps the tissue stretched can be helpful, as can custom-fitted orthotics to redistribute pressure.

Other causes of arch pain call for tailored care. For stress fractures, rest is important and a walking boot or crutches can take pressure off the area. For sprains, rest and immobilizing the foot will help the injury heal. For tendonitis, rest and icing the area can ease pain and swelling.

You can help prevent arch pain by wearing properly-fitting shoes with good arch support. Avoid unsupportive shoes and sandals like flip-flops. Regular stretching keeps foot and calf muscles flexible and strong. If you stand for long periods, consider using an anti-fatigue mat, such as at the kitchen sink. If arch pain persists, schedule a visit so we can guide your recovery.