A lot of people, exercisers and non-exercisers, have pain and fatigue in their feet. This can be caused by unsupportive shoes, strain, and several other factors. Knowing exercises on how to strengthen the arches of your feet have been shown to ease foot pain and foot fatigue.
A study released in 2008, showed that the abductor hallucis muscle (a bottom of the arch muscle) supports the arch by contracting and controlling proper foot posture while standing. This foot posture is called “pronation”. If the posture is off, it can cause the foot to roll to the left or right. When this happens, you may develop other problems like shin splints, plantar fasciitis and even pain in the legs and joints.
A study in 2011 (Jung et al, 2011) compared the two most common arch strengthening exercises. You can see samples of these 2 exercises in the first 2 videos below. It was suggested that both exercises work, however, the Short Foot Exercise (Video 2) works best. Even though the 2011 study showed the Short Foot Exercises were most effective, our doctors recommend a different version of the Toe Curl Exercise (Video 1). Why? It is easier to perform. You can view Video 3 for instructions on this easy Toe Curl Exercise. However, if you are a high-intensity athlete, we do suggest that you perform the Short Foot Exercises (Video 2).
You can purchase the Archexerciser here.
Other studies used orthotics as a way to strengthen the arch. Although orthotics help, the study proved that a combination of orthotics and arch strengthening exercises worked best. Those that used both orthotics and exercises had stronger feet Orthotics work by aligning muscles in the correct position to help strengthen the arch while doing the exercises. When not using an orthotic while performing the exercises, the muscle lost foot support.
You have a choice when it comes to orthotics. You can purchase a custom orthotic or a prefabricated one. Although the study did not state which was better, we believe a custom orthotic will provide the best position of the arch to receive the best results. With a custom orthotic, designed by your podiatrist, you will receive proper foot/arch alignment. Even though we recommend the custom orthotic, a prefabricated one will be beneficial as well. Foot Healthcare Associates offers both prefabricated and custom orthotics.
Contact one of the best podiatrists in Novi for help with foot and ankle issues. We provide the best foot and ankle treatment as well as surgery of all types.
©Copyright 2025 Foot Healthcare Associates.
©Copyright 2025 Foot Healthcare Associates.
