The arch of my foot and base of heal swell up and hurt after long walks...Why?

Answer 1

You may have plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis (say “PLAN-ter fash-ee-EYE-tus”) is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the flat band of tissue (ligament) that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. If you strain your plantar fascia, it gets weak, swollen, and irritated (inflamed). Then your heel or the bottom of your foot hurts when you stand or walk.

Plantar fasciitis is common in middle-aged people. It also occurs in younger people who are on their feet a lot, like athletes or soldiers. It can happen in one foot or both feet.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by straining the ligament that supports your arch. Repeated strain can cause tiny tears in the ligament. These can lead to pain and swelling. This is more likely to happen if:

Your feet roll inward too much when you walk (excessive pronation).
You have high arches or flat feet.
You walk, stand, or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces.
You are overweight.
You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out.
You have tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles.
What are the symptoms?

Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps, but your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long period.

Answer 2

I am having problems like this right now. The best thing to do, is get a shoe that has a higher heel, that puts your foot in a postion that your heels are higher than your toes....I also wear support bandages, as my arches have completely fallen from prior surgery...a good pair of stockings (they have them for men) help also...elevate your feet when you come home, and make sure you are wearing shoes with good shock on the foot...It is horrible when you try to walk and have this happen..I am going to have to have surgery now...But changing shoes, did help

Answer 3

If you want to cure plantar fasciitis completely in one month check out this site: http://treatmyplantarfasciitis.uk.to- I did it, it works! Pain was gone in only a few days. Good luck!

Answer 4

A number of conditions can cause this and you should have it checked out if changing shoes does not correct it. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can be exacerbated by over-use or obesity. There are other conditions as well. Good luck.