Cavus Foot (High-Arched Foot)

Overview

This condition is an abnormally high arch of the foot that results in an excessive amount of body weight being directed to the ball and heel of the foot. Cavus foot can be congenital or acquired, may develop at any age, and can affect one or both feet.

Causes

This condition can be caused by a wide variety of factors. It can be present at birth, the result of an inherited structural abnormality. In many cases, however, cavus foot develops slowly - later in life - as the result of a nerve or muscular disorder. Stroke, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and other medical conditions can cause cavus foot to develop.

Symptoms

The most obvious symptom of cavus foot is a high arch that is present even when the person is standing. Because cavus foot results in an excessive amount of pressure in the ball of the foot and heel, the person may experience foot pain, ankle instability, and calluses on the sole of the foot. The person may also develop claw toes or hammertoes.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the problem. If the condition is inherited, orthotic devices, braces or changes in footwear may be recommended to provide more support for the foot. If the cavus foot has resulted from a nerve or muscle disorder, the underlying cause will be treated. In many cases, surgery is needed to correct the deformity.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.