We have heard how complex the structure of our feet is. But did you know that the arch too has an intricate structure layered with muscles and tissues? Two ligaments run along the length of your feet, whereas one goes across the width. This means that if you feel arch pain or discomfort in your arches, there could be multiple reasons causing it since the entire area under your feet is at risk.

One more thing to note is that pain in the arches can occur suddenly or aggravate over time due to any of the following reasons:

• Plantar fascia, a ligament connecting the heel to the toes, may be damaged or inflamed due to excessive and repetitive physical activity;
• Muscle damage also occurs if you do not take breaks between workouts or even your daily work routines to relax your feet and ease the load off them. Injuries, sprains or stress fractures are possible outcomes too if you are reckless with your feet.
• Being overweight also exposes your feet to the risk of heel and arch pain.
• Your footwear is essential in determining the health of your feet. Shoes that are too tight or too big put your heels, arches and toes under stress. High heels are likely to hurt your arches and the balls of your toes due to extra stress. Bone structure deformities are also usually attributed to inappropriate footwear.

At Joseph Stuto, DPM, Dr. Joseph Stuto recommends using customized orthotic inserts and provide a range of other treatments to help mitigate pain and discomfort from your feet. Our experts are experienced in treating a variety of foot and ankle related conditions such as sports injuries and stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, fungal infections, shin splints, neuroma, deformities, arthritis and more. For more information, examination and treatment options, contact our offices located in Brooklyn Heights (718) 624-7537 and Brooklyn (718) 567-1403 and schedule your appointment today.