Understanding Cavus Foot: What High Arches Mean for Your Foot Health
At Achilles Foot Clinic, we often see patients experiencing foot pain and instability caused by an often overlooked condition—cavus foot. While many people are familiar with flat feet (pes planus), fewer are aware of the opposite condition: high arches or cavus foot. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at cavus foot, its causes, symptoms, and how high arches can lead to pain, discomfort, and mobility issues. Whether you're dealing with high arches yourself or simply want to understand the condition better, this guide will provide you with useful insights.
What Is Cavus Foot?
Cavus foot is a condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally high, more so than what is considered normal. Unlike flat feet, where the arch is collapsed, a high arch results in the foot being more rigid and less flexible. This can cause uneven pressure distribution when walking or standing, which leads to a range of symptoms and discomforts.
Causes of Cavus Foot
Cavus foot can develop for several reasons, both genetic and acquired:
Genetic Factors: In many cases, cavus foot is inherited. If a family member has high arches, there's an increased chance of developing the condition. It's common for children to be born with high arches, which can be more pronounced as they grow.
Neurological Conditions: Some cases of cavus foot are caused by neurological disorders, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a condition that affects the peripheral nerves and causes muscle weakness and imbalances in the foot. Conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and stroke can also lead to high arches, as they affect muscle control and lead to the foot's abnormal structure.
Trauma or Injury: Previous injuries, especially fractures or damage to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments of the foot, can result in the development of high arches. In some cases, these injuries may lead to a gradual collapse or distortion of the foot's normal arch structure.
Other Conditions: Certain conditions, like stroke or polio, can affect the muscles and nerves controlling the foot and lead to structural changes, including cavus foot.
Symptoms of Cavus Foot
Cavus foot symptoms can vary, depending on the severity of the high arches and the associated changes in foot mechanics. Common symptoms include:
Foot Pain: High arches can lead to increased pressure on the toes, heels, and the ball of the foot, causing pain and discomfort. This pain is often felt after prolonged standing or walking.
Instability: High arches can make it harder for the foot to adapt to uneven surfaces, leading to instability and a higher risk of ankle sprains or falls.
Calluses and Corns: Due to the concentrated pressure on specific areas of the foot, people with cavus foot often develop calluses or corns on the balls or heels of their feet.
Foot Deformities: Over time, cavus foot can lead to other deformities, such as hammertoes, where the toes bend abnormally, or claw toes, which curl downward.
Difficulty Finding Comfortable Footwear: Those with cavus foot may find it difficult to wear regular shoes. The shoes may not provide enough support or cushioning for the high arch, leading to discomfort.
Tight Achilles Tendons: The rigidity in the foot associated with high arches can lead to tightness in the Achilles tendon, which can result in Achilles tendonitis or other related conditions.
How Cavus Foot Affects Your Foot Health
Cavus foot can affect foot health in several ways due to the abnormal pressure distribution it creates. When the arch is too high, the foot is less flexible, and it cannot properly absorb the shock from walking or running. This can cause problems such as:
Excessive Pressure on the Ball and Heel of the Foot: The arch of the foot is meant to absorb shock and distribute pressure evenly across the foot. In cavus foot, this doesn’t happen, leading to concentrated pressure on certain areas like the ball and heel. Over time, this pressure can cause pain, corns, calluses, and other foot issues.
Joint and Bone Stress: The altered alignment and mechanics of the foot put stress on the joints and bones, especially in the toes and heels. This can contribute to conditions such as arthritis or joint degeneration, leading to further pain and mobility issues.
Instability and Risk of Injury: A foot with high arches is less able to absorb shock and adapt to uneven surfaces. This can result in instability, increasing the likelihood of ankle sprains, stress fractures, and falls.
Treatment Options for Cavus Foot
The treatment for cavus foot largely depends on the severity of the condition and the associated symptoms. Here are some common treatment options:
Custom Orthotics: One of the most effective treatments for cavus foot is the use of custom-made orthotics. These are specially designed shoe inserts that help to correct the foot's alignment, distribute pressure evenly, and provide support to the arch. Custom orthotics can help alleviate pain and improve overall foot function.
Footwear Modifications: Choosing the right footwear is crucial for managing cavus foot. Shoes with a wide toe box, ample arch support, and cushioning can help reduce pressure on the foot and improve stability. Avoid shoes with high heels or inadequate arch support.
Physical Therapy: Exercises aimed at strengthening the foot muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting balance can help improve foot function and reduce pain. Physical therapy can also help stretch tight muscles, such as the Achilles tendon, and improve overall stability.
Surgical Intervention: In severe cases of cavus foot, surgery may be required to correct the deformity and alleviate pain. Surgical options can include tendon lengthening, bone realignment, or corrective procedures to improve foot function.
Pain Management: For individuals with significant pain, over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be considered to reduce inflammation and pain.
Conclusion
Cavus foot is a condition that can lead to significant pain, discomfort, and instability if not addressed. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available is the first step in managing the condition and improving your foot health. With the right interventions, such as custom orthotics, proper footwear, and physical therapy, many people with cavus foot can find relief and regain mobility.
If you’re experiencing pain or instability due to high arches, don’t hesitate to reach out to Achilles Foot Clinic. Our experienced team is here to provide personalised care and help you get back on your feet.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet!
