An important part of the foot is the arch. Located in the middle of the foot, it is flexible, absorbs shock, helps distribute the body’s weight throughout the entire foot, and assists with balance. When the arch begins to cause pain and other foot issues, it is time to seek the help of an experienced podiatrist.
Types of Foot Arches
It is helpful to know the type of arch you have in order to understand the problem you may be experiencing with your feet. Problems in the arches can cause pain not only in the foot but in areas such as the ankle, leg, and lower back.
There are three natural types of arches:
- Low. A low or flat arch is when the arch is no longer visible and the foot is flat to the ground. This can lead to pain and imbalance.
- Medium. A medium or normal arch allows pressure and weight to be evenly distributed throughout the foot.
- High. A high arch can lead to tired and sore feet since pressure is placed on the heel and ball of the foot.
There are various problems that can lead to arch pain including:
- Flatfoot. Flatfoot happens when there is no longer a visible arch in the foot and can cause pain and swelling in the feet and ankles, as well as trouble when walking or standing.
- Muscle problems. Problems with the muscles and nerves in your feet can cause the arch to collapse and flatten out.
- Nerve disease. Diseases that affect the nerves in your feet can tighten the middle of the foot and cause the arch to be higher than normal. There are also bone diseases that can do the same.
- Weight. Being overweight can put pressure on your arches and cause them to fall.
When to See Your Podiatrist
If you notice any changes to your feet or begin to experience pain, Greater Washington Advanced Podiatry can help you understand the issues you may be experiencing. We offer a free initial consultation and can create a customized plan to address your heel and arch pain and get you back on your feet as soon as possible. To set up an appointment, fill out our contact form or call us at (301) 515-FEET.
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