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Foot Experts Warn of Risks: Improper Arch Support Leads to Pain and Injuries

Proper arch support is crucial for foot health. Learn about the risks of improper support and how to prevent common injuries.

In the center of the image there is a leg stretcher.
In the center of the image there is a leg stretcher.

Foot Experts Warn of Risks: Improper Arch Support Leads to Pain and Injuries

Foot health professionals are warning about the risks of improper foot arch support, which can lead to complications like turf toe and heel pain. The adductor hallucis muscle, responsible for big toe movement and arch reinforcement, is particularly vulnerable.

Collapsed arches, or flat feet, occur when the foot arch does not provide proper support. This can cause pain in the arch and big toe, often due to excessive standing, ill-fitting shoes, or high-impact sports. The adductor hallucis muscle, with its oblique and transverse heads attaching to metatarsal bones and toes, plays a crucial role in maintaining foot arch integrity.

Peripheral neuropathy can also cause foot numbness, potentially leading to unnoticed injuries. Bunion formation, a painful big toe bend due to joint enlargement, can further exacerbate these issues. Treatments for adductor hallucis complications include foot taping, ice application, casting, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, crutches, electrotherapy, and rest with foot elevation exercises. Turf toe, a sprain of the big toe ligaments and muscle strain of the adductor hallucis, is a common injury among athletes. Heel pain can also result from repeated pressure on the hallucis muscle.

Foot professionals such as physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, and podiatrists can help manage these complications. Proper foot care, including wearing well-fitting shoes and avoiding prolonged high-impact activities, can prevent many of these issues. If you experience foot pain or numbness, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

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