How to Treat Arch Pain?

Do you often feel tightness, pain, and burning sensation in the sole or mid arch of your foot? If yes, you might be a victim of the arch pain. Arch pain is a common musculoskeletal disorder found in people of all ages. It is not specifically related to athletes or professional players but to groups from different fields.

Despite the painful feeling, some people may not pay attention to arch pain and leave it unnoticed until it turns into severe complications such as fractures or ankle instability. To avoid such complications, you should know how to treat arch pain and what causes it. Let's discuss it in detail below.

What is Arch Pain?

To learn how to treat arch pain, you should have a clear understanding of this condition.

1. Structure of the Foot and Arches

To begin with, the foot is composed of a series of bones, including the metatarsals and phalanges, which work in conjunction with the arches to provide stability and balance. Each foot has two arch structures: the longitudinal arch and the transverse arch.

These arches are supported by tendons, ligaments, and muscles, and any strain on these structures due to injury or repetitive activities can lead to arch pain. Typically, arch pain occurs on the underside of the foot, especially under the heel and along the arch. The pain can be particularly strong after prolonged standing or walking.

2. Common Causes of Arch Pain

So, what causes pain in the arches of your feet: 

• Plantar Fasciitis

One of the most common causes of arch pain is plantar fasciitis, affecting almost one in 10 people over their lifetime.^[1] It is an inflammation of the fibrous tissue called plantar fascia that connects the back of the foot to the front. Excessive physical activities, such as running, can lead to intense heel pain. 

• Flat Feet

Individuals with flat feet have a foot structure where the arch is either very low or completely flat. This can be a congenital condition (present from birth) or can develop over time. It can cause arch pain due to the increased stress on the plantar fascia and other soft tissues of the foot.

• Fallen Arches or Arch Collapse

Fallen arches or arch collapse may happen due to the stretching or tearing of the plantar fascia. The changing structure can make the heel and the ball of the foot bear increased pressure and experience pain and discomfort, be it standing still or walking casually.

3. Symptoms Associated with Arch Pain

Generally, the signs can vary from mild to severe and might take a few days to appear. Enlisted below are some of the common symptoms linked to arch pain:

• Pain under the foot
• Difficulty in walking or standing
• Swelling or tenderness
• Redness or warmth in the arch

How to Treat Arch Pain- Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Now that you know the common causes and symptoms, it's time to get a precise answer on how to treat arch pain. The treatment options can vary depending on the type of injury and severity of the pain. The following are some non-surgical treatment methods you can follow:

1. Lifestyle Adjustments

To make your foot withstand less pressure, you may follow a good lifestyle to lose weight. Additionally, proper footwear can offer good arch support and cushioning, thereby distributing pressure more evenly across the foot. And follow your heart when you feel the arch pain is too much to bear. Reduce or modify activities like long-distance running or standing for extended periods.

2. Physical Therapy

Another way of arch foot pain treatment is through physical therapy. Try stretching exercises that help increase the flexibility of the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon. Don't forget to practice your foot and lower leg muscles, as they can provide additional support to the arch. If the gait is the problem, turn to a physical therapist to assess your walking or running pattern.

3. Medication

When non-drug methods don't work, you can get help from some over-the-counter medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or naproxen can reduce pain or swelling around the foot. They can provide foot pain arch relief by reducing inflammation in the body.

4. Ankle Braces

Another effective non-surgical method is using specialized ankle braces. These supportive wearables can provide additional support and cushioning to reduce the risk of further injuries. Moreover, they keep the ankle and foot in a still position, which can maintain a good natural placement.

How to Treat Arch Pain- Surgical Treatment Options

Surgical intervention only happens when non-surgical methods fail to relieve the pain. This section will introduce some surgical treatment options and post-operative care recommendations.

1. Types of Surgeries for Arch Pain

The surgeries can vary depending on the pain condition and foot situation. The two common surgeries are:

• Reconstruction Surgery
• Arthrodesis

Reconstruction surgery is usually performed for flat feet and is relatively less risky than other surgical operations. During the process, the damaged or affected tendon is removed or repaired to help with joint mobility. In arthrodesis, the bones are fused together through a process called bone grafting so the bones heal properly.

2. Post-operative Care Recommendations

Surgical treatments often need much care and attention. Once the surgery is done, you may need a cast to protect your foot and keep it elevated. You can use a pillow or blanket for elevation. The purpose is to reduce swelling and pain. Plus, rest enough, limit your walking, and do not perform physical activities until you see clear signs of improvement.

Fivali Ankle Braces for Support

Whether you are looking for a solution to soothe the arch pain or are recovering from foot surgery, an ankle brace might be recommended by your healthcare provider. Why do ankle braces work for relieving your pain? Let's see two of Fivali's solutions to have a general idea.

1. Fivali Adjustable Compression Ankle Stabilizer Brace 1 Pack FAH02

This compression ankle stabilizer has double plate fixed support with adjustable straps to hold the joints properly. It provides additional ankle support for broken or damaged ankles. Overall, it's a value pack that can help reduce arch pain and swelling.

2. Fivali Ankle Braces Support 1 Pack FAH01

This ankle brace support is highly comfortable with 15mm-thick memory foam lining, so you can get relief from stabbing arch pain. Moreover, a bendable aluminum bar design is installed to keep the arch stretched and in perfect alignment. This pack is particularly suited for those who suffer from ankle pain, heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis.

Arch pain is highly common and can lead to severe complications if it goes unnoticed. From non-surgical treatment to surgical treatment, there are multiple approaches to the doubt on how to treat arch pain. If you are suggested to find relief with an ankle brace, Fivali can offer what you need. Visit Fivali today and see what there are for you! 

References:

[1] NCBI/2024, "Plantar Fasciitis". Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431073/ (Accessed on June 25, 2024)