- See an orthopedist or physical therapist if arch of foot pain persists despite rest, ice, and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.
- Seek medical evaluation if pain starts after a significant injury, especially if a fracture is suspected.
- Persistent pain with walking, running, climbing stairs, or other daily activities may require assessment to identify the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
Arch of foot pain is commonly linked to wearing shoes that are too tight or do not fit properly, regularly doing activities such as running, and excess body weight. These factors can irritate or inflame the nerves and tissues in the foot, leading to pain and discomfort.
Applying ice to the painful area for about 20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. Resting the foot and avoiding activities that worsen the pain may also help, depending on the cause.
If arch of foot pain persists, an orthopedist or physical therapist should be consulted to identify the underlying cause. Once the cause is determined, appropriate treatment can be started.
Main causes
The main causes of arch of foot pain are:
1. Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is pain in the front of the foot that can occur due to wearing inappropriate footwear, doing high-impact exercise, excess body weight, or foot deformities, for example. These factors can irritate and inflame the joints, tendons, or nerves that support the metatarsal bones, resulting in pain.
What to do: To relieve the pain and discomfort caused by metatarsalgia, it is important to rest the foot, apply ice to the area, and avoid the activity or factor causing the pain. If the pain persists, an orthopedist or physical therapist should be consulted for an evaluation and more specific treatment, which may include anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to improve foot support and mobility.
2. Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, the tissue that supports the muscles of the foot, becomes inflamed. This can cause pain in the arch of the foot, a burning sensation, and discomfort when walking or running, for example.
Plantar fasciitis is more common in women who frequently wear high heels. It can also occur in people who are overweight or who take long walks while wearing inappropriate footwear.
What to do: Treatment for plantar fasciitis aims to reduce inflammation in the tissue. An orthopedist may recommend pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and improve quality of life. Physical therapy may also be recommended to reduce inflammation in the area and improve blood circulation.
3. Morton's neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a small thickening of tissue that can form in the ball of the foot and cause significant pain and discomfort when walking, climbing stairs, squatting, or running, for example.
The development of Morton's neuroma is usually associated with wearing shoes that are too tight around the toes and regularly doing intense physical activities, such as running. These factors can cause repeated microtrauma in the area, leading to inflammation and the formation of the neuroma.
What to do: To relieve the pain and discomfort caused by Morton's neuroma, appropriate shoe inserts may be recommended to provide better foot support. Avoiding sandals, flip-flops, and high heels may also help. Anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy may be recommended to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and help prevent additional neuromas from developing.
Read more about treatment for Morton's neuroma and different approaches your doctor may recommend.
4. Fractures
Fractures are less common causes of arch of foot pain, but they can occur after a significant injury, such as an ankle sprain during physical activity or while walking down stairs, for example.
What to do: If a fracture is suspected, it is important to consult an orthopedist. Imaging tests can be performed to identify the broken bone and determine the most appropriate treatment. The foot is usually immobilized, and the doctor may recommend anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers if pain is present.
