When your feet hurt, it can make you reluctant to walk and perform the normal activities of everyday life. The foot has many parts that can be painful, but arch pain can be particularly disabling. Dr. Cosimo Ricciardi of Emerald Coast Podiatry in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach, FL, provides treatment for a variety of common arch conditions.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of arch pain in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach, FL. The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissues that runs along the bottom of the foot from the toes to the heel and is what gives the foot its arch. When the fascia gets stretched or overused it may swell and this causes pain. Plantar fasciitis can be caused by many things, including having flat feet, high arches, being overweight, poor arch support in your shoes, and more.
Flat Feet
Young children have flat feet, but usually as they become adults the arches develop. For some people, the arches remain flat, and for others, an injury or just aging results in flat feet. There may be a genetic component in some cases as they do tend to run in families.
Obesity
Being overweight puts additional stress on the arch of the foot which may cause the arches to fall. This can cause the arches to become painful. The more you weigh, the more pressure is applied to the foot and the more pain you may feel.
High arches
High arches can be a condition that is present from birth, or it may be the result of an underlying condition. They can lead to pain in the arch and eventual structural damage to the foot.
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
PTTD is the most common adult-acquired flatfoot deformity. It is a progressive disease of the foot and ankle that is common in middle-aged people. The deterioration in the post-tibial tendon leads to the lack of ability to support the arch. The falling arch causes arch pain.
Cavus foot
Cavus foot is a condition where the arch in the foot is particularly high. It is most common in children and it can cause arch pain.
Many causes of arch pain can be helped with the correct exercise program. Taking ibuprofen for the pain as directed, applying ice, and resting are all things you can do at home. Your podiatrist may recommend orthotics to support your arches. In some serious cases, surgery may be needed to repair damage to the arch and foot.
Contact Dr. Ricciardi of Emerald Coast Podiatry when you have questions about arch pain in Crestview and Fort Walton Beach, FL. Give our office a call at 850-862-4119 to make an appointment.