High-Arched Foot (Cavus Foot)

Cavus foot is a condition in which the foot has a very high arch, causing an excessive amount of weight to be placed on the ball and heel of the foot. It can develop at any age and occur in one or both feet. Cavus foot is often caused by a neurologic disorder or other medical condition. In other cases, it may represent an inherited structural abnormality. An accurate diagnosis is important because the underlying cause of cavus foot largely determines its future course.

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Symptoms of High-Arched Foot:

• Hammertoes (bent toes) or claw toes (toes clenched like a fist)

• Calluses on ball, side or heel of foot

• Pain when standing or walking

• Unstable foot (can lead to ankle sprains)

• Foot drop/dragging of foot (usually sign of underlying neurologic condition)

 

Treatment:

• Orthotic devices

• Shoe modifications

• Bracing

• Surgery (if other options fail to relieve pain and improve stability)