Persistent arch pain

Chris Oubre

After I did two HIM back to back my left arch has hurt. The pain is worse after I'm idle, particularly the first steps in the morning. It doesn't hamper my ability to run and gets better if I stretch my calf.

I'm concerned that this will develop into something worse. I've increased my stretching but it still persists. I'm thinking of getting a sports massage.

1. Any sports massage recommendations near Fairfax VA?

2. Anything else I should be doing?

Bryan Davis

Sounds like you might have a case of plantar fasciitis (bottom foot pain).  Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time.

Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch leading to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if: your feet roll inward too much when you walk or run, you have high arches that aren't properly supported or flat feet. You walk, stand, or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces. You wear shoes that don't fit well, not tied tight enough or are worn out.You have tight Achilles or calf muscles.

You might not score a 100% on the quiz above but i'm guessing a couple of these apply.

My recommendation for this would be to stretch often and ice it down. Try freezing a water bottle and roll it under your arch and heel area a couple times a day, time permitting. Wear shoes and even flip flops with good arch support, try  to avoid walking around bare foot.

 

But i do like your idea of a rub down, it’s always a fantastic idea!

 

 

rlh2000

There are also a lot of products you can wear overnight to hold your ankle flexed to help keep the plantar fascia stretched out and avoid that morning pain. They vary in comfort and depends on your tolerance. I have one similar to this:

http://www.nationalbraceandsplint.com/product.asp?itemid=370&gclid=CMShztqoqb4CFcU-MgodTUUAiw

I find it pretty comfortable and not too annoying. They also have ones more like socks- http://www.amazon.com/Strassburg-Sock-Regular-Size-Around/dp/B001AW3O00

Chris Oubre

Thanks for the great feedback. That's what I was worries about. Just want to avoid it becoming a bone spur