What’s Your Arch Type & How It Affects Your Feet

Your arch type affects the way your foot functions. It affects not just your feet, but also your knees, your back and more. In order to properly support your feet, it is important to know your arch type, so you can be sure you are using the proper footwear and orthotics to prevent pain or injury over time.

LOW ARCH (FLAT FEET)

Approximately 20% of the population has low arches. Low arches are more flexible and tend to roll inwards and over-pronate.  Typically, imprints or iStep scans for your foot type show almost your entire foot. Low arches are often biomechanically imbalanced and can make your feet more susceptible to common foot problems such as heel pain, arch pain and plantar fasciitis.

The good news is that the right footwear and foot orthotics can help you achieve proper body alignment, prevent injuries and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

MEDIUM ARCH

Approximately 60% of the population has medium arches. Medium arches are often biomechanically efficient but still can be susceptible to common foot problems such as heel pain or ball-of-foot discomfort.  Typically, imprints or iStep scans for your foot type show approximately half your arch area with a well-defined forefoot and rearfoot.

Your feet are always on the go and will greatly benefit from some extra cushioning, shock absorption and support.  The right footwear and foot orthotics can help you achieve proper body alignment, prevent injuries and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.

HIGH ARCH

Approximately 20% of the population has high arches. High arches are usually classified as supinated and are more rigid than other feet. Typically, imprints or iStep scans for your foot type show mostly your heel and ball-of-foot, with very little in the arch area.

When we walk or run, our feet absorb most of the impact and shock.  With high arches you have less surface area for absorbing impact and you place excessive pressure on your rearfoot and forefoot areas.  This can make you susceptible to foot conditions such as heel pain, ball-of-foot pain or plantar fasciitis.

The good news is that the right orthotics can help fill in your arch cavity to disperse the shock, and provide the cushioning and alignment needed for you to prevent injuries and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.