- The arch assists in weight distribution from the body through the feet and legs. Arches contribute to correct mobility and assist in coordination over various ground surfaces. Should the arch fall, mobility becomes harder and the foot may face outward, forcing too much pressure onto the inner area of the foot with the ankles leaning inward, a condition called pronation. Swelling, pain and sprains may occur on the inner areas of the ankles.
- With time, a fallen arch that is not given orthotic support can cause misalignment of the foot, legs, ankles and even the lower back. While walking or moving, pressure is distributed to other parts of the foot, causing postural strain. The muscles continue to weaken, and the arch is no longer available to provide proper weight distribution support. The result is pain that travels from the foot and ankles into the lower legs.
- Fallen arches can cause an increasingly unsteady gait, foot pain and uneven shoe wear. Without support for the fallen arch, over time, the ligaments of the foot wear and may tear. Bones that support the foot can collapse. This in turn, may cause the foot muscles to become overused. The result can be medial tibial stress syndrome, also known as shin splints. Should shin splints be left untreated, stress fractures may occur.
- The plantar fascia is the tissue that travels from the heel of the foot to the arch. It helps form the arch of the foot. When the arch falls, the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, causing plantar fasciitis. Pain is often experienced in the center of the foot while standing for the first time of the day. This is because the plantar fascia contracts when it is not used. The pain gradually subsides as the plantar fascia stretches and is used.
- Nearly 70 percent of people who suffer from plantar fasciitis also experience heel bone spurs. A small hook of bone that forms on the heel bone is called a heel spur. It is usually formed at the back of the foot where the plantar fascia is attached. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is the result of chronic inflammation of the plantar fascia. Heel spurs can be painful and contribute to loss of mobility.
