Your Arches Affect Your Health and Mobility

Your foot arches are essential for maintaining balance, distributing weight evenly and supporting proper posture. Healthy arches reduce strain on the ankles, knees and hips, making every step more comfortable while enhancing overall mobility. 

At Kirkland Office, we understand the vital role foot health plays in your daily life. We’re dedicated to helping you address any foot-related issues with personalized care and attention.

If you’ve never given much thought to your arches, identifying their type is simple. Dip your foot in water and step onto a piece of cardboard. Your footprint will reveal important clues about your arch structure. A footprint with the sole partially visible indicates a normal arch, which provides optimal support for your weight. However, if your entire footprint is visible, you likely have flat feet. 

Flat feet are common and often develop when arches fail to form in childhood or flatten over time due to aging, obesity, injuries, or medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Flat feet that don’t cause discomfort typically require no treatment. If pain occurs, over-the-counter arch supports, supportive shoes or targeted exercises can help relieve symptoms.

A footprint showing only the heel and ball of the foot means high arches. This condition is less common and can be caused by bone or nerve abnormalities. High arches place additional stress on the heels and toes, making walking and running uncomfortable. This extra strain can lead to plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the tissue connecting your heel to your toes. High arches can also make finding well-fitting shoes difficult, potentially worsening discomfort. Treatment often involves wearing supportive shoes or inserts, but severe cases may require surgical intervention to lower the arches.

No matter your arch type, addressing foot pain promptly is crucial to avoid complications and maintain mobility. 

Kirkland Office is committed to evaluating your foot health thoroughly and answering all your questions. Whether you need advice on managing flat feet, high arches or other foot concerns, our experienced team is here to provide effective solutions. Schedule an appointment with us today to take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable feet.