Arch pain (often referred to as arch strain) refers to an inflammation and/or burning sensation at the arch of the foot.
There are many different factors that can cause arch pain. A structural imbalance or an injury to the foot can often be the direct cause of the arch pain. However, most frequently the cause is a common condition called plantar fasciitis.
The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue located along the bottom surface of the foot, that runs from the heel to the forefoot. Plantar fasciitis is caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia, usually due to over-pronation (flat feet).
The inflammation caused by the plantar fascia being stretched away from the heel, often leads to arch pain. The arch pain is often extreme in the morning when an individual first gets out of bed or after a prolonged period of rest.
If arch pain condition is left untreated and strain on the longitudinal arch continues, a bony protrusion may develop, known as a heel spur. It is important to treat the condition promptly before it worsens.