How to Know If You Have a Fallen Arch

A fallen arch in your foot isn't a problem to take lightly. It can lead to bone spurs, back and hip pain and increased chances of arthritis. When you have a fallen arch, the middle inner part of your foot that should be off the ground is closer to the ground. For some, it's a problem that is heredity. For others, it's bad posture, wearing heels or putting a lot of strain on your feet. If you find you have a fallen arch, contact a doctor and find shoes that give extra arch support. Taking steps to care for your fallen arch helps prevent other conditions from getting worse over time.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard

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Instructions

• 1

  Dip your foot into a bathtub of water. Shake off the excess, then press your foot on a piece of cardboard on the floor. If you see an entire footprint with no missing area where your arch should be, you have a fallen arch.

• 2

  Find a pair of shoes your wear regularly.

• 3

  Look at the heels on the shoes. If you see an uneven heel, it means you're having an arch problem. An uneven heel on one shoe means arch problems in that foot and maybe not in the other.

• 4

  Check the inside bottom of your foot for swelling after you've been standing for awhile. If it's swollen, you may have a fallen arch.