Everything You Need to Know About Severe High Foot Arches (Cavus Foot)

Severe foot arches, medically known as cavus foot or pes cavus, refer to a condition where the foot has an abnormally high arch. This excessive arch can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications, affecting both comfort and mobility.

What are the causes of cavus foot?

Some of the primary causes cavus foot include:

• Neurological conditions:
  (Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: This inherited disorder affects the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and high arches.)
  (Cerebral Palsy: A group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone, often resulting in high arches due to muscle imbalances.)
  (Spina Bifida: A birth defect that affects the spine, leading to neurological deficits and often high arches.)
  (Muscular Dystrophy: A group of genetic diseases causing muscle weakness and degeneration, which can result in high arches.)
• Genetic Factors: Cavus foot can be hereditary. If one or both parents have high arches, there is an increased likelihood that their children will also develop the condition.
• Trauma: Injuries to the foot or ankle, such as fractures or severe sprains, can cause structural changes in the foot, potentially leading to the development of a high arch.
• Muscle imbalance: Muscle imbalance can occur due to overuse or improper use of foot muscles and can cause the foot to form a high arch.
• Postural habits: Certain postural habits or activities that place abnormal stress on the foot can contribute to the development of a high arch.

What are the symptoms of Cavus Foot?

Here are the key symptoms to watch for:

• Pain when standing or walking
• Difficulty finding Shoes that fit comfortably
• Claw toes
• Calluses
• Instability leading to frequent ankle sprains
• Difficulty walking or running
• Weakness in foot muscles
• Hammer toes
• Foot drop

Treatment options

Non-surgical treatments:

Custom orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts are designed to fit the unique contours of an individual’s foot. They provide targeted support to the high arch, which helps in distributing pressure more evenly across the foot. By cushioning and supporting the foot, orthotics can alleviate pain, improve stability, and prevent the formation of calluses and other pressure-related issues.

Over-the-counter insoles: For mild cases, over-the-counter insoles with good arch support can be beneficial. These are more affordable and can provide adequate support for some individuals.

Bracing: Ankle braces provide additional support and stability to the ankle, which is particularly useful for individuals who experience frequent ankle sprains due to cavus foot. Ankle braces help maintain proper alignment and prevent excessive rolling of the ankle, reducing the risk of injury during daily activities.

Physical therapy: This includes exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the foot and ankle. Stronger muscles can better support the high arch, reducing pain and improving function. Plus, stretching exercises for the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles can help to increase flexibility in the foot and ankle, reducing stiffness and improving mobility.

Surgical treatments

For individuals with severe cavus foot or those who do not respond to non-surgical treatments, surgical options may be considered. Some of the options may include:

Soft tissue surgery:

• Tendon transfer: This procedure involves moving tendons from one part of the foot to another to balance muscle forces and correct deformities. Tendon transfers can help address muscle imbalances that cause claw toes and improve overall foot function.
• Tendon lengthening: Lengthening tight tendons, such as the Achilles tendon, can help reduce pressure on the arch and improve flexibility.

Bone surgery:

• Osteotomy: This surgical procedure involves cutting and realigning bones to correct structural abnormalities. By repositioning the bones, the surgeon can improve the alignment of the foot and reduce pain and instability.
• Arthrodesis (Joint fusion): This procedure involves fusing two or more bones in the foot to stabilise the joint and correct deformities. Arthrodesis is often used for severe cases where other treatments have failed.

Plantar Fascia:

• Plantar Fascia release: This surgery involves cutting a portion of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot. By releasing the fascia, tension is reduced, alleviating pain and improving flexibility.

Book an Appointment at Thames Foot Clinic for Cavus Foot

Don’t let cavus foot control your life. Discover how Thames Foot Clinic can provide the relief and support you need to get back on your feet with confidence and comfort. Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care. We pride ourselves on our patient-centered approach, focusing on your individual condition and helping you manage it effectively. Book an appointment with us, by clicking the button below.