Could Your Arch Pain Be More Than Plantar Fasciitis? When to Seek Specialized Care

Does the arch of your foot hurt when you get out of bed in the morning or climb a flight of stairs? If so, you aren’t alone. Arch pain is one of the most common types of foot pain we treat.

What you might not know is that while plantar fasciitis is a common cause of arch pain, it isn’t the only culprit. Several conditions can trigger arch pain, so it’s important to be able to tell the difference.

At The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, Angelo Morreale, DPM, has years of experience diagnosing and treating arch pain and its underlying causes. Let’s explore some of the most common causes of arch pain, including how plantar fasciitis is different and when to see an expert for treatment.

Understanding plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury and one of the most common causes of chronic heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs from the heel to the toes, experiences wear-and-tear due to walking, standing, or other physical activity.

Over time, these activities can cause degenerative changes and microtears to develop in the plantar fascia. When that happens, it can lead to persistent heel pain that’s most noticeable in the mornings and after periods of rest.

In some cases, heel pain may also extend to the arch of the foot, making daily activities such as climbing the stairs or walking the dog incredibly uncomfortable.

Common causes of arch pain that are not plantar fasciitis

Because plantar fasciitis is so common, people with heel or arch pain often assume that plantar fasciitis is responsible. But that isn’t always true. Here’s a closer look at some other conditions that may present similar symptoms:

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is an injury affecting the tendon that supports the arch of your foot (the posterior tibial tendon). This tendon runs along the inner arch of your foot and keeps your foot stable when you push forward while walking or running. PTTD is a repetitive strain injury (RSI) commonly caused by overuse.

Flat feet (fallen arches)

Flat feet is a condition that occurs when your feet don’t have much of a visible arch, causing more of your soles to make contact with the floor. Everyone is born without arches, but they typically develop during childhood. In some cases, they don’t, or the arches become injured, leading to flat feet and foot pain.

Stress fractures

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the feet or toes. They’re typically caused by repetitive stress, such as running or jumping. Stress fractures don’t typically require surgery, but to heal properly, they need time and rest.

Nerve-related conditions

Sometimes, the nerves in the feet become compressed or pinched due to injury or disease. When that happens, it may cause tingling, burning, or sharp pain in the arch of the foot.

When to see a specialist about pain in the arch of your foot

People of all ages experience pain in the arch of their foot at one time or another. In most cases, symptoms subside with at-home care, such as rest, ice, and taking over-the-counter pain medication.

Make an appointment with Dr. Morreale if the pain in the arch of your foot:

Persists or worsens despite at-home care
Interferes with daily activities, such as work or exercise
Occurs alongside significant swelling, bruising, or tenderness
Causes tingling, weakness, or numbness
Happens immediately after a foot injury, such as a sprained ankle or a fall

Even though pain in the arch of the foot typically isn’t serious, waiting too long to seek treatment can increase the risk of further damage. Prompt diagnosis can help identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.

Concerned about pain in the arch of your foot?

Arch pain is common, but if it lasts more than a few days or keeps you from activities you enjoy, don’t wait to have it checked out. To get started, schedule a visit with Dr. Morreale at The Foot Institute: Call your nearest office in Shreveport or Natchitoches, Louisiana, today.

After an exam and, if necessary, diagnostic imaging, Dr. Morreale can make personalized treatment recommendations to get you back on your active life — without pain.