Are High Arches Slowing You Down?

Are High Arches Slowing You Down?

Walking around with high arches might seem like a harmless activity, but in reality it can be causing you a lot of stress. This is because the size and shape of your arch can directly affect the way you walk and move around. Sometimes the shape can make you more mobile while other times it can be slowing you down. People who have high arches tend to have less motion in the joints of the foot.

What does it mean to have less motion?

If you have high arches and have less motion in the foot, it means a couple of different things for you and your choice of footwear. First, it means that when you buy a new pair of shoes you should buy those with more room at the top portion of the foot. Next, it means that, when you walk, your foot typically wears out the outside of your outer soles and flattens out your outer midsole. If you do not replace worn shoes periodically, it can cause pain, suffering and complications of the foot.

People with high arches also have a tendency to suffer from a tight Achilles tendon. This will cause the shoe to become worn at the ball of the foot.

What shoe will benefit me?

If you are going to be on the move with high arches, then you should buy a pair of shoes that will help you dress for success. First, look for a pair of shoes with a higher heel than forefoot area. Make sure the heel is thick and offers enough support when walking. These shoes should also be flexible at the ball of the foot. This type of shoe may decrease the chances of injury from high arches and also can relieve pain.

My shoes aren’t helping, now what?

If your new shoes aren’t helping you stay mobile in a healthy and pain-free manner, consider buying a set of custom-made orthotics. Orthotics can be inserted into a shoe and worn as an everyday medical tool. They can help support the foot and prevent pain and injury from occurring. There are many different types of orthotics available. Soft, semirigid and rigid orthotics are all available and used in different ways. In order to figure out which is right for you, call a podiatrist today. Contact Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn of Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona. Call 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online today. High arches do not have to be your arch enemy. Allow us to help.