Arch Pain Causes Besides Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Causes of Foot Arch Pain If You Don't Have Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of pain in the arch of the foot. But there are also several other possible reasons for arch discomfort unrelated to plantar fasciitis.

Understanding the differences can help guide proper treatment and relief.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel bone to the toes.

The hallmark symptom is stabbing pain in the arch or heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting.

Why Foot Arch Can Hurt Without Plantar Fasciitis

There are several potential sources of arch pain distinct from plantar fasciitis, including:

• Arch strain
• Nerve compression or damage
• Arthritis
• Tendonitis
• Heel spur
• Stress fracture

Understanding the nuances of each can provide clues to the true culprit behind your discomfort.

Arch Strain

Arch strain refers to microscopic tears or overstretching of the plantar fascia or surrounding ligaments in the arch.

It shares some similarities with plantar fasciitis, but is generally less severe and acute.

Arch strain causes more generalized soreness rather than isolated heel pain. Activities like exercise, standing, or walking typically provoke the discomfort.

Nerve Compression

The nerves that run through the foot can become compressed or irritated, resulting in arch pain that radiates throughout the foot.

Causes include inflammation, scar tissue from surgery, arthritis, and mechanical factors like flat feet or high arches.

Nerve-related arch pain tends to be described as burning, pins-and-needles tingling, or numbness.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the arch and midfoot area.

Arthritic arch pain is usually worse with weight-bearing activity but may also be bothersome at rest. There may be visible swelling in the top or outside of the foot.

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

The posterior tibial tendon attaches the calf muscle to the arch. Inflammation of this tendon causes pain along the inner ankle and arch.

Symptoms get worse with activity and include swelling and tenderness. Flat feet or fallen arches are common.

Heel Spurs

While heel spurs don’t actually cause pain, they may accompany plantar fasciitis or exist on their own.

Spurs are small protrusions of bone that develop slowly over time. Arch discomfort results from associated inflammation.

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of the foot. They are caused by repetitive stress or overuse.

Fractures in the arch or midfoot produce swelling and sharp pain along the top or outside of the foot. Pain usually gets worse with any weight-bearing.

Diagnosing the Cause of Arch Pain Without Plantar Fasciitis

Seeing a podiatrist is the best way to determine the true cause of arch discomfort.

The doctor will examine the foot and ask about symptoms. Special tests might include:

• Palpation - Feeling the arch and heel area for tenderness
• Range of motion - Moving the foot and ankle into different positions
• Neurological tests - Checking nerve function
• Imaging - X-rays, MRI, bone scan

Blood tests may also help diagnose inflammatory forms of arthritis if present.

Key Differences from Plantar Fasciitis

Some key differences that point away from plantar fasciitis include:

• Pain in the top or outside of the foot instead of isolated heel pain
• Tingling, burning, or numbness sensations
• General arch soreness instead of pinpoint tenderness
• Swelling, redness, or warmth in the foot
• Onset of pain unrelated to first steps after rest

Paying attention to these subtle differences can provide early clues prior to definitive diagnosis.

Risk Factors

Certain activities, foot types, and medical conditions can increase the likelihood of arch pain unrelated to plantar fasciitis:

• High impact sports - Volleyball, basketball, tennis
• Runners
• Poor foot mechanics - High arches or flat feet
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Surgery or injury to the foot/ankle

Treating Arch Pain Without Plantar Fasciitis

Treatment depends on the underlying diagnosis but often involves:

• Rest and activity modification
• Ice and elevation
• OTC anti-inflammatories
• Arch supports or orthotics
• Physical therapy
• Immobilization for fractures
• Corticosteroid injections for arthritis
• Surgery if conservative treatment fails

Finding an exact diagnosis maximizes the chances of quickly finding the appropriate treatment to relieve your arch pain.

Home Remedies

These self-care remedies may also provide relief:

• Gentle foot stretches and massages
• Soaking in an Epsom salt bath
• Applying an ice pack wrapped in a towel
• Wearing supportive or corrective footwear
• Using OTC arch supports or orthotics
• Switching to low-impact exercise

When to See a Doctor

See a podiatrist promptly if you have:

• Unexplained arch pain lasting over 2 weeks
• Severe pain preventing activities
• Swelling in the foot
• Signs of infection like redness, warmth, or fever
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the foot
• Pain not improving with at-home care

Early evaluation and proper treatment helps prevent small injuries from becoming larger problems.

Preventing Future Arch Pain

You can reduce the chances of arch pain recurring by:

• Wearing supportive footwear for exercise
• Stretching and strengthening foot muscles
• Losing excess weight
• Using custom orthotics
• Taping or bracing the arch
• Avoiding barefoot walking
• Limiting high impact activity
• Staying active to promote circulation

Proper foot care and biomechanics are key to keeping arch pain at bay.

While plantar fasciitis is a common culprit, there are a variety of sources of arch discomfort. An accurate diagnosis paves the way for the right treatment plan.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.