Cavus Foor (high arch)
The height of the arch of the foot varies between individuals
and those with different racial backgrounds. Some people have a
high arched foot and this is sometimes termed a cavus foot.
What causes a cavus foot?
Generally, most people are born with a cavus foot although it
can develop with time. If the arch height is increasing and the
foot appears to be shortening, then there may be an underlying
neurological condition causing the muscles to tighten and effect
the foot position.
Will it get worse?
It is unlikely that the position will get worse unless there is
a progressive neurological condition. However, the position of the
toes and the associated problems may deteriorate.
What are the common symptoms?
- High arch
- Pain / discomfort in the foot, leg or back
- Associated deformities (e.g. hammertoes, retracted toes)
- Corn / callous formation particularly on the ball of the foot
or toes
- Difficulty in shoes
- Difficulty in walking
- Stiffness in the foot
- A tendency to ankle sprains / lateral instability
How is it recognised?
Clinical examination and a detailed history allow diagnosis.
X-rays help to evaluate the extent of the deformity and any
arthritis within the joint. Specialist scans help to evaluate the
tendons and joints. A detailed gait analysis can help
to diagnose the contributing factors to the cavus foot.
What can I do to reduce the pain?
There are several things that you can do to try and relieve your
symptoms:
- Wear good fitting shoes with a deep toe box
- Perform exercises to keep the muscles flexible and strong
- Avoid high heels
- Wear a pad over any prominent deformities
- See a podiatrist
What will a podiatrist do?
If simple measures do not reduce your symptoms, there are other
options:
- Advise appropriate shoes
- Advise exercises
- Consider prescribing orthotics
- Consider prescribing a custom made ankle
foot orthotic
- Advise on surgery
The way in which your foot loads during walking can place
increased stress on the muscles, bones and joints and this can be
controlled by special shoe inserts (orthotics). Whilst these are
unlikely to resolve established deformity they may help reduce
discomfort. Severe cases may need an ankle foot orthosis.
Will this cure the problem?
In many cases, the conservative treatments are sufficient to
resolve the symptoms and prevent tendon / ligament damage. However,
they will not correct the foot position and there will always be
the risk of further problems, especially in more severe cases.
What will happen if I leave this alone?
If there are no symptoms, there may not be any problem. However,
if there are symptoms, these may well deteriorate with time.
How can I cure the deformity?
The only effective way of correcting the deformity is to have an
operation. However, this is usually extensive surgery with a long
recovery period and should only be considered if all of the
conservative treatments have failed. This is rarely necessary
except for the most severe cases.