FOOT TERMINOLOGY: a thread

Because I care about the terminology.

(This is mainly for me to feel good, please use whatever language you’re comfortable with but be aware you may be misunderstood)

Foot arch vs foot instep

The top part of your foot is your instep. The lower part is your arch. There are different types of arches; high, medium and low.

High arch:

you’re able to see through to the other side when placing weight on the foot, like this

Medium arch:

Most people have medium arches. The arch lifts from the floor but you can’t see through it, like this

Low arch:

Barely lifts from the floor when putting weight on the foot.

I don’t have any pics of low arches

If you have low arches you may want to speak to your doctor or physiotherapist about getting insoles which may help prevent knee and ankle injuries

Yes, I have one high and one medium arch. It’s because of an injury that caused one of my metatarsal bones to collapse.

ALL ARCHES ARE SEXY. You do not have to have high arches to have sexy feet. I myself LOVE low arches

This is a pointe, or a pointed foot if you will (spelling it as ‘point’ is ok too)

This is a demi pointe (also known as half point)

This is en pointe (not on point)

Don’t do this if you don’t have proper training, going en pointe can cause permanent damage to your feet and body.

This is wrong. Don’t do this.