Foot arch pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. The arches of the foot serve a vital role in absorbing shock and distributing weight during activities like walking, running, and jumping. However, when the arch is strained or stressed, it can lead to discomfort ranging from mild to severe, and may negatively affect your daily activities. Foot arch pain can arise from various causes, including injuries, overuse, and structural differences in the feet. Underlying conditions like plantar fasciitis or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction are other possible causes. Seeking assistance from a podiatrist is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan. A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions through physical examinations and imaging tests in order to identify the root cause of your foot arch pain.  Treatment options may include prescription medications, custom orthotics, immobilization devices, or surgery in persistent or severe cases. To alleviate discomfort from foot arch pain and restore your mobility, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester,  can contribute to pain in the front of the foot. This discomfort is mostly because of natural weight gain and the resulting increase in pressure on the feet. Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy cause the ligaments in the body to relax and stretch in preparation for childbirth, which can lead to a spreading of the feet and a decrease in arch support. This combination of factors can strain the forefoot and lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, which results in pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot or heel. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can provide personalized advice on how to manage this pain. Suggestions may include wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and engaging in gentle foot exercises. If you are pregnant and experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

First and foremost, wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to a myriad of injuries. Whether they are too tight, too loose, or simply not designed for the activity you are engaging in, improper footwear can place undue stress on your feet, ankles, lower legs, and joints, increasing your risk of pain and injury. From common issues like shin splints and ingrown nails to more severe problems such as bunions and postural misalignments, the repercussions of wearing the wrong shoes can be far-reaching and debilitating, potentially limiting your ability to engage in physical activity altogether. Furthermore, wearing the wrong shoes can worsen existing conditions, such as arthritis, making daily activities more challenging and uncomfortable. Plus, when your shoes fail to support your natural gait or foot structure, it can lead to overpronation, underpronation, or other biomechanical issues, placing added strain on your joints and increasing your risk of injury. If your feet are painful after performing certain activities or from wearing certain shoes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine whether your footwear may need to be changed.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Inner Loop, Southwest, Greater Heights, and Pearland, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.