Arch Pain (Arch Strain)

The phrase arch pain (or arch strain) refers to an inflammation and/or burning sensation under the long arch of the foot. This is a common foot condition that can be easily treated by Board Certified Podiatric Surgeon David P. Rosenzweig, DPM, PC, at either his Rye Brook (Westchester County) or Greenwich, Connecticut office.

Arch pain (arch strain) has the tendency to occur as a result of excessive misuse in activities / exercises such as running, skiing, hiking, walking, tred-mill, and jumping. People who have flat feet, or people whose feet flatten and roll inward (called "over pronation") are more prone to arch pain. Arch pain usually occurs very slowly. However, it can occur suddenly if the ligaments are torn or stretched during a forceful activity such as sprinting or jumping

An accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist (foot doctor) is important early in the management of arch pain. The more common specific causes of arch pain (arch strain) tend to be:

plantar fasciitis (strain of the plantar fascia - a strong ligament that supports the arch)
tarsal tunnel syndrome (a pinched nerve at the ankle that refers pain to the arch)
foot strain from a pronated foot or flat foot
osteoarthritis of the joints in the mid-foot
poor or improper foot-ware


There are two arches in each foot. The longitudinal arch runs the length of your foot, and the transverse arch runs across the width of your foot. The arches are made up of ligaments, which keep the bones of your foot in place. Arch pain can occur in one or both arches, but occurs most commonly in the longitudinal arch.

If this arch pain (arch strain) 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 and seek a proper consultation from  David P. Rosenzweig, Board Certified in Podiatric Surgery, before it worsens.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment: If you have pain that has not been responsive to other treatments, there is a new non-surgical treatment that was recently approved by the FDA. ESWT (extracorporeal shockwave therapy) uses strong electrohydraulic acoustic (sound) energy that triggers the body's natural repair mechanism. This treatment method is safe, effective and requires a very short recovery period compared to older surgical techniques.

To make an appointment with David P. Rosenzweig, Board Certified in Podiatric Surgery to discuss your arch pain (arch strain) at either his Rye Brook (Westchester County), New York or Greenwich, Connecticut office please feel free to phone either office or contact us via email with any questions or concerns pertaining to your ach pain.