Is Arch Pain Serious? When You Should Worry About Your Aching Feet

We at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists get this question all the time: Is arch pain just a sign of a long day on your feet, or is it a signal that something is structurally wrong?

While not every ache is an emergency, your arches are the primary shock absorbers for your entire body. When they hurt, it is usually because the system of tendons and ligaments is under too much stress. Here is how to tell if your arch pain is a cause for concern.

Common Culprits Behind the Ache

Most arch pain can be traced back to a few usual suspects. The most famous is plantar fasciitis, which happens when the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes becomes inflamed. You will usually feel this most intensely during those first few steps in the morning.

Another common issue is posterior tibial tendon dysfunction. This occurs when the tendon that supports your arch becomes overworked or injured, causing the arch to flatten over time. 

If you notice your foot looks flatter than it used to, or if you have swelling along the inside of your ankle, this is a sign that the structural integrity of your foot is changing.

3 Signs Your Arch Pain Is a Big Deal

So, when should you stop the home remedies and call a professional? If you experience any of the following, your arch pain is a cause for concern:

• The Pain is Persistent: If you have rested, iced, and changed your shoes, but the pain lasts for more than a week, it is not just simple fatigue.
• Visible Structural Changes: If your arch appears to be collapsing or if you notice new bumps and swellings, you may have a tendon tear or a stress fracture.
• Numbness or Tingling: Arch pain accompanied by a pins and needles sensation often points to nerve entrapment, which requires specialized treatment to prevent permanent damage.

Simple Solutions to Relieve the Strain

If your pain is mild, you can often find relief by changing the way you support your foundation. 

Walking barefoot on hard floors is one of the worst things you can do for arch pain. Instead, look for supportive footwear that mimics the natural contour of your foot. Orthotic inserts can also help realign your posture and redistribute weight so that your arch isn’t doing all the heavy lifting alone.

Stretching your calves and using a foot roller can also significantly decrease the tension in your arches. 

And remember that untreated arch issues can lead to secondary problems in your knees, hips, and back, so address them while you can.

If you’re experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or changes in how you walk, come see the expert team at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists. With locations in Tucson and Oro Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., are here for you. Call us at (520) 575-0800 or contact us online!