Definition

Arch pain, also known as "Arch Strain“refers to aburning sensation and [or inflammation at the arch of the foot.

Cause

Arch pain can be caused by many different factors. An injuryto the foot or a structural imbalance can often be the direct cause. Mostfrequently the causes can a common condition called Plantar Fascitis. ThePlantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue located along the bottomsurface of the foot. Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia causes plantarfasciitis inflammation caused by the plantar fascia being stretched away fromthe heel often leads to heel pain. This pain is often extreme in the morningwhen an individual first gets out of bed or after a long period of rest.

If the condition is left untreated and strain on the archcontinues, a bony protrusion may develop, also known as a heel spurs. itsimportant to treat this condition promptly before it gets worse.

Treatment

Arch pain is a common foot condition that can be easilytreated. If you suffer from arch pain avoid high- heeled shoes wheneverpossible. Choose footwear with a reasonable heel, soft leather uppers or shock absorbingsoles as well as biomechanical arch supports.

How can diabetesaffect your feet?

Diabetes can cause two problems that can affect your feet.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Uncontrolled diabetes can damage your nerves of legs andfeet, and you might not feel heat, cold, or pain. This lack of feeling is called"sensory diabetic neuropathy. If you do not feel a cut or sore on your foot,the cut could get worse and become infected. The muscles of the foot may notfunction properly. This could cause the foot to not align properly and createtoo much pressure in one area of the foot. It is estimated that up to 10% ofpeople will develop foot ulcers. Foot ulcers occur because of nerve damage andperipheral vascular disease.

Peripheral VascularDisease

Diabetes also affects the flow of blood. Without good bloodflow, it takes longer for a sore or cut to heal. Poor blood flow in the arms andlegs is called "peripheral vascular disease." If you have an infectionthat will not heal because of poor blood flow, you are at risk for developingulcers or gangrene (the death of tissue due to a lack of blood).