Arch Pain

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What is Arch Pain

Arch Pain is when the arch tendon (the plantar fascia), on the underside of your foot becomes inflamed. The tendon extends between the ball of your foot and your heel and it plays a big part in absorbing shock while you are walking and running etc. The problem is more common amongst people who walk or stand for long periods, sports people who over stretch the area, women (particularly those over 40) and people who wear inappropriate footwear such as high heels for long periods.

Taking part in sports, walking and standing for long periods of time can become difficult if the arch of your foot is not properly supported.

Some people who suffer from Arch Pain describe a burning sensation under their feet, sometimes referred to as 'burning feet'. You may find that pain is concentrated in the heel area, spreads during the day to the arch of your foot and is worse in the morning, becoming better during the day as your tendon warms up. Arch Pain could be a temporary condition for you if you have injured your foot. Alternatively Arch Pain could be more permanent due to an underlying condition such as Plantar Faciitis caused by your foot rolling inwards when you walk or Flat Feet which can cause the same rolling action.

What to look for in a shoe if you have Arch Pain

If you are experiencing Arch Pain then it is best to avoid wearing high heel shoes for any significant length of time. You may wear an orthotic insert or an arch support that you have bought 'off the shelf', or has been tailored by a podiatrist to help stop your foot rolling inwards. You will need to account for this when looking for a healthy and comfortable pair of shoes.

The check list below has been developed to help you find a pair of shoes that you are happy with and are also healthy for your feet. Depending on the style of shoe you want, you may focus on all or most of them.

• Know your shoe size, sounds like common sense but when was the last time you had yours measured?
• Make sure that the shoes you are buying will be wide enough for your feet, If you generally have problems finding shoes that are wide enough then it may be worth getting them measured in person at a reputable shoe shop.
• Make sure that there is enough room in the shoe for any insole or orthotic insert you wear. Look for a shoe with a removable insert or one that is deep enough to accommodate yours
• Think about the material that your shoe is made of, avoid synthetic and hard materials and opt for a natural soft leather or alternative that will allow your feet to breath naturally
• Whether you are working on your feet all day, hiking or taking part in sport, make sure your footwear is appropriate to that activity
• For the ladies, choose a low and firm heeled shoe