Bottom Foot Arch Pain

By Darin McGilvra

Pain in the arch on the bottom of the foot is a common problem among golfers. It is known as "golfer's heel," or plantar fasciitis, and can be very painful, especially when you first get up in the morning and the foot has had a chance to stiffen up.

Causes

Golfer's heel is usually caused by repetitive trauma to the bottom of the foot, such as constant walking over rough terrain on a golf course.

Diagnosis

Correct diagnosis by an orthopedist is important because each specific cause of arch pain calls for a different remedy. An MRI exam may also be done to check for inflammation and bone spurs.

Conservative Treatment

Conservative treatment can include rest, using more shock-absorbing golf shoes, using orthotic inserts in the shoes to support the arch, and placing the foot in a cast to ensure the foot gets rest.

Aggressive Treatment

Aggressive treatment can include ultrasound therapy, cortisone injections in the foot and surgery to repair the tendons.

Prevention

Use shock absorbing golf shoes or even orthotic inserts to support the arch on your feet, especially if you have flat feet. Stretching your feet before golfing also can help.

Resources

Lynco Golf Shoe Inserts

About The Author

Darin McGilvra is a writer in Southern California. He has been a writer since 1997. He worked as a sports writer and copy editor for newspapers for more than 12 years before becoming a freelance writer. His articles have appeared recently in "The Californian" newspaper in Temecula, Calif. McGilvra holds a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics education from Northwest Nazarene College.

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