Foot Arch Problems

The foot can be divided into 3 parts - the forefoot (toe area), the rearfoot (heel area) and the midfoot (area in between). These areas are connected and supported by the foot arches, helped by ligaments and muscle. They ensure that the foot moves in a co-ordinated and consistent way to maintain momentum and stability.

Symptoms

Although there are 3 arches in the foot, the main arch, or medial arch, runs along the inside of the instep, maintaining balance, providing spring board propulsion for walking and acting as the foots shock absorber.

Symptoms of fallen or weak arches are as follows:

• Lack of arch support causes the ankle joint to become tired and swollen.
• The weakening of the foots natural shock absorber creates a burning sensation in the back of the foot.
• A raised arch creates pressure on the forefoot and causes a cramped feeling around the toes.

Arch problems can affect the way we walk, a condition called excess pronation. The foot becomes weak and begins to turn inward in a more excessive way than is natural. This puts the foot under enormous amounts of stress and in time, can result in problems like heel spurs, bunions, corns, callus and ingrowing toe nails.

Causes

Problems with arches can be caused by ill fitted shoes, obesity, long periods off your feet, (eg during long illnesses) incorrect gait or hereditary conditions.

Treatment

Treatment involves examining the arches of the foot, evaluating any underlying problems such as hip, knee or back problems which can be associated.

Podiatrists can also recognise the symptoms of common foot complaints such as:

• Metatarsalgia - pain in the ball of the foot.
• Mortons Neuroma - inflammation affecting the nerves, commonly affecting the 3rd and 4th toes.
• Plantar Fasciitis - Inflammation of the fascia that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot.
• Heel spurs - pain associated with calcium build up in the heel.
• If required a separate bio mechanical assessment will be advised with potential fitting of an orthotic.

Supporting Products

• Over the counter insoles
• Custom made/ chairside orthotics
• Gel metatarsal protectors
• Invisible gel cushions
• Ait pillo half insoles
• Heel pads
• Gel heel cups to relieve pressure