How to Measure Foot Arch Height?

Determining your foot arch height is key to maintaining comfort and preventing foot problems. A healthy arch should provide proper support, balance, and shock absorption. Here we walk you through simple steps to measuring foot arch height, interpret results, and take action for better footwear choices.

Foot Arch Measurement Guide

Measuring foot arch height helps in choosing the right footwear and maintaining good foot health. Your foot arch height​ determines how you distribute weight and absorb shock during movement. Effective ways for arch height measurement and determining your foot type in Phoenix include:

Foot Arch Test#1: The Wet Test

The foot arch test is an easy way to determine your arch type and understand your foot mechanics in Mesa. How to measure arch height? Follow these simple steps:

• Wet the bottom of your foot using water.
• Step onto a piece of cardboard or paper, applying normal pressure.
• Step off and examine the shape of your footprint.

Foot Arch Test#2: Pencil Test

Follow these steps to measure your arch length without leaving your home:

• Place your bare foot on a blank paper sheet.
• Use a pen to mark the heel and ball of your foot.
• Measure the distance between two marks with a ruler.

Interpreting the Results of the Arch Height Test

Interpreting your results from measuring foot arch height lets you take action to prevent pain, improve posture, and avoid long-term foot problems in Gilbert. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what each result means:

• Low Arch (Flat Foot): Most or all of your foot appears in the footprint with minimal curve. Overpronation is common, leading to joint pain, shin splints, instability, and fatigue. Use motion-control shoes and firm arch-support insoles to stabilize the arch.
• Normal Arch: About half of your arch is visible with a natural curve. This balanced structure supports proper weight distribution and reduces foot problems. Choose neutral shoes with moderate support and adequate cushioning.
• High Arch: Only the heel and ball appear in the footprint, with a deep arch curve. High arches cause underpronation and uneven pressure and increase the risk of stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and stiffness. Opt for cushioned shoes, insoles with strong arch support, and a deep-heel cup. Custom orthotics may help if pain persists.

What Do High Arches Mean?

High arches, also known as pes cavus, happens when the the foot arch of is higher than normal. This condition impacts how weight is distributed across your feet, leading to uneven pressure on specific areas. Effects of high arches include:

• Underpronation, in which the foot rolls outward and reduces shock absorption, and stresses the heel and ball.
• Weight concentrates on the heel, and the ball causes pain.
• High arches increase the chance of stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and ankle instability in Scottsdale.
• A high arch limits flexibility and makes uneven surfaces harder to navigate.
• Rigid arches reduce stability and cause more sprains or falls.

High arches often result in chronic discomfort or pain if not properly managed. Using well-cushioned shoes and insoles with strong arch support helps redistribute weight and protect your feet from potential complications.

Signs of High Arches

High arches can cause noticeable symptoms that affect comfort and foot health:

• Foot pain is common in the heel, ball, or arch due to uneven weight distribution.
• Calluses which develop on pressure points like the ball, heel, or outer edge of the foot.
• Toe deformities caused by tight tendons and muscles.
• Reduced ground contact which leads to balance issues and a higher risk of falls or sprains.
• Limited flexibility in the arch makes movement uncomfortable.
• Difficulty finding supportive shoes, which leads to worsened pain if untreated.

What Is the Ideal Arch Size?

The ideal arch size varies slightly from person to person. You can use foot arch height devices to determine your arch type accurately. Here are typical arch size measurements based on the arch height chart:

• Low Arch (Flat Foot): Less than 1.5 cm (measured from the ground to the highest point of the arch).
• Normal Arch: Between 1.5 cm and 2.5 cm. This is considered the average range for healthy foot mechanics.
• High Arch: Greater than 2.5 cm.

How to Measure Foot Arch Length?

Arch length helps in choosing shoes with the right arch support in Chandler. Measuring foot arch height properly ensures comfort and prevents long-term problems. You can measure the length of your arch with a few simple steps:

• Sit and place your foot flat on a piece of paper.
• Mark the base of your heel and the ball of your foot (just below the big toe).
• Measure the distance between the two points with a ruler.

In case you are wondering how to measure your foot arch length at home, you can use the tests and find out your accurate foot arch length.

What Are the Best Insoles for High Arches?

People with high arches benefit from insoles designed for extra support. Custom orthotics may also improve comfort and prevent pain. Look for these features:

• Cushioning protects the heel and ball of the foot from pressure.
• Arch support helps distribute weight evenly.
• Heel cup stabilizes the heel and reduces strain.

Measuring Your Arch Height Here in Arizona

Knowing how to measure arch height helps you decide about footwear and insoles. Take a few minutes to measure your arch and explore options for better support. Your feet will thank you. If you need professional advice or custom orthotics, call Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers at (480) 812-3668 or visit our website to schedule your appointment.

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