How does a foot high arch happen?

High arches can be genetic or in most cases can be caused by wearing improper shoes and/or imbalances of leg muscles.  Muscle imbalance can arch the foot.  This puts additional pressure under the big toe and toes begin to curl and become "claw toes".  If the toes are curled, it changes the way we walk and stand. We begin putting added pressure on the heel of the foot and because of this, some muscles weaken and others become stronger.  We also tend to land on the outside of the foot, which can lead to twisted ankles and sprains. A high arch foot may develop because the posterior tibialis muscle next to your shin becomes strong, but the muscle on the outside of the leg (peroneus brevis) remains weak.   This moves the foot in a position that adds strain to the arch and forefoot.  It is important to stretch the strong muscle and strengthen the weak one.    Making sure the foot moves properly is imperative.   There are 26 bones in the feet and they all have joints.  These joints can be moved with gentle guidance allowing your foot to be in a better position and relieve the stress on the big toe.

Can high arches cause health problems?

Yes, there are several conditions that can develop as a result of high arch feet. Most commonly:

1. Inflammation at the ball of the foot (Metatarsalgia): 
   Pain can occur with walking, standing or sitting
2. Plantar Fasciitis: 
   The plantar fascia extends from the heel to the toes.  If this flares up, it is very painful and takes a while to heal.
3. Hammertoes: 
   This is when toes bend and curve at the middle of the joint. This will lead to foot pain and may even require surgical intervention.
4. Claw toes: 
   Toes will curl downward and dig into the ground.  This will effect the way you walk which can lead to issues of the kinetic chain (foot, ankle, knee, hip and low back).  
5. Ankle weakness and instability: 
   If your ankle is not stable, it will roll sideways more easily and cause ankle sprains.
6. Metatarsal fractures: 
   Fractures of the feet when walking, running or just plain over use can happen more easily if your foot is strained.  

So how can a chiropractor help?

We can adjust the feet and help locate muscles that may be contributing to keeping your foot pulled up causing a high arch.  We can teach you how to strengthen the proper muscles of your leg and relax strong muscles to keep a balance in your feet.  We also keep your foot moving properly with gentle adjusting, soft tissue work and cold laser. 

Keeping your feet moving properly will allow you to stay active and healthy.  Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF is a certified extremity practitioner who can help with your spine and whole body.  Contact us at our San Francisco, CA or San Carlos, CA office, we can help.