How can you tell what type of foot arch you have?

FAQ: Heel and Arch PainThe easiest way is to take the “wet test.” Simply wet the bottom of your foot in a shallow pan or bucket, then step onto a piece of paper. After your footprint appears, lift your foot and check the shape.

  • Normal arch: You’ll see a moderate curve along the inside of the foot.

  • Flat or low arch: The footprint will have little to no curve—almost one solid shape.

  • High arch: There will be a deep curve, with only a narrow line connecting the heel and the ball of the foot.

No arch type is “bad,” but flat and high arches can be more prone to pain or overuse issues. If you’re concerned or already dealing with discomfort, don’t wait—contact the doctors and staff at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic. Call (210) 375-3318 or reach us through our website.

Why does my high-arched foot hurt?
High arches don’t distribute weight evenly. Instead, extra pressure goes into the heel and the ball of the foot, leading to pain when standing or walking—especially for long periods. You may also notice calluses, hammertoes, or claw toes.

If a neurological issue is causing your high arch (also called cavus foot), you may experience additional problems like changes in your gait, worsening arch height, or even foot drop. Finding comfortable shoes can also be challenging.

If you have high arches and are struggling with foot pain, our team can help. Call (210) 375-3318 or contact us through our website to make an appointment at our Pleasanton, TX office.

What’s the difference between tendinitis and bursitis?
Both involve inflammation of soft tissues near muscles and bones, and while the symptoms can feel similar, the conditions are different:

  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa—small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion between bones and tendons. This usually develops from overuse or direct trauma.

  • Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendon itself, often caused by repeated stress or injury.

Both conditions are treated with rest, ice, compression, elevation, and exercises to strengthen and stretch the surrounding muscles. If you’re unsure what’s causing your pain, let our doctors evaluate and diagnose your condition. Call (210) 375-3318 to schedule a visit at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pleasanton, TX.

What are the main causes of heel pain?
Heel pain is most commonly caused by:

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Achilles tendinitis

  • Sever’s disease (in children and teens)

  • Stress fractures

These injuries usually feel worse when putting weight on your feet and improve somewhat with rest—but they can get worse over time without proper treatment. Other causes, like nerve compression, heel pad inflammation, or bursitis, are less common but still possible.

Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Contact our doctors at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pleasanton, TX. Call (210) 375-3318 or use our online form to request an appointment.