High Arch Foot (Pes Cavus)
Condition
Condition
What is a High Arch Foot?
A high arch foot, also called pes cavus, is a condition where the arch of the foot is much higher than normal. Instead of spreading weight evenly across the sole, most of the pressure falls on the heel and the ball of the foot. This uneven distribution can cause discomfort, instability, and long-term strain on joints.
Having high arches is not always painful, but they often contribute to secondary problems that affect movement, balance, and overall comfort.
High Arch Foot (Pes Cavus)
How Do I Know If I Have a High Arch?
You may have a high arch foot if you notice:
- A footprint with little or no middle section touching the ground.
- Difficulty balancing or feeling unstable when walking.
- Shoes wearing out more quickly under the heel or ball of the foot.
Common Problems Linked to High Arches
High arches can lead to a variety of symptoms and complications, including:
- Ankle instability and frequent sprains.
- Foot pain under the heel, ball of the foot, or along the arch.
- Pressure points, calluses, or corns from uneven weight distribution.
- Shin, knee, hip, or back pain due to altered posture and gait.
Causes of High Arches
High arches may be:
- Inherited – passed down through family foot structure.
- Structural – related to bone and tendon alignment.
- Neurological – associated with conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
A specialist can determine whether your high arches are simply structural or part of an underlying condition.
High Arch Foot (Pes Cavus)
Treatment Options for High Arch Foot
Treatment aims to relieve pain, improve stability, and prevent complications. The goal is not to lower the arch but to support the foot effectively..
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure.
- Supportive footwear designed for high arches
- Ankle bracing for added stability.
- Physiotherapy to strengthen muscles and improve balance.
When Surgery is Considered
If conservative care does not provide relief, surgical options may be recommended. These procedures are tailored to your specific needs and may include:
- Tendon transfer – rebalancing muscles and alignment.
- Osteotomy – repositioning bones to correct deformity.
- Fusion (arthrodesis) – joining bones for stability and pain relief.
- Plantar fascia release – easing tension in the arch.
- Soft tissue release – lengthening tight ligaments or tendons.
- Lateral ligament reconstruction – repairing ankle ligaments to reduce sprains
When Should I See a Foot & Ankle Specialist for High Arches?
You should see a specialist if you experience:
- Ongoing foot or ankle pain.
- Recurrent ankle sprains.
- Difficulty walking or finding comfortable shoes.
- Knee, hip, or back pain linked to your foot type.
Why early treatment matters: addressing high arches promptly can prevent long-term damage, keep you active, and improve quality of life.