What is a High Arch?
A high arch, also known as pes cavus, is a condition where the foot has a very high arch that does not flatten when bearing weight. This can lead to excess pressure on the ball and heel of the foot when walking or standing, causing pain and instability.
Symptoms of High Arch
The symptoms of a high arch can include:
- Pain or discomfort in your feet, especially when standing or walking.
- Instability and balance problems, leading to frequent ankle sprains or falls.
- Hammertoes or claw toes (toes that curl under in a claw-like position).
- Calluses on the ball, side, or heel of the foot.
Diagnosing High Arch
Diagnosis of a high arch typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. They may observe your feet and your stride as you walk or run. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays may be used to assess the structure of the foot and ankle.
Possible Treatments for High Arch
There are several treatment options for high arch:
- Orthotic Devices: Custom-designed shoe inserts can help support the arch and reduce pressure on the ball and heel of the foot.
- Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Injection Therapy: Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to flatten the foot and correct the imbalance.
Next Steps
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a high arch, it’s important to seek professional help. At Sharma Foot & Ankle Specialist, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care for your foot and ankle needs.
Don’t let foot discomfort hold you back. Reach out and make an appointment with us today. Your feet will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a high arch (cavus foot)?
A high arch, also called pes cavus or cavus foot, is when the foot’s arch is unusually high and does not flatten when you put weight on it. Because the arch stays raised, more pressure falls on the ball and heel of the foot during walking or standing. This can lead to pain and a feeling of instability.
What are the symptoms of high arch feet?
Common symptoms include pain or discomfort in the feet, especially when standing or walking, and instability or balance problems that can cause frequent ankle sprains or falls. Some people also develop hammertoes or claw toes, where the toes curl under, and calluses on the ball, side, or heel of the foot. Symptoms vary from person to person.
How is a high arch diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually starts with a physical examination, where a healthcare professional looks at your feet and watches how you walk or run. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays may be used to assess the structure of the foot and ankle. This helps guide an appropriate treatment plan.
How are high arch feet treated?
Treatment depends on your symptoms and may include custom orthotic devices (shoe inserts) to support the arch and reduce pressure on the ball and heel. Physical therapy with specific exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and balance, and over-the-counter pain relievers may help manage pain and inflammation. For more persistent cases, corticosteroid injections may reduce inflammation, and in severe cases surgery may be considered to correct the imbalance.
Can exercises or orthotics help high arch foot pain?
They often can. Custom-designed shoe inserts can help support the arch and reduce pressure on the ball and heel of the foot, while physical therapy exercises can improve strength, flexibility, and balance. Results vary by person, so a podiatrist can help determine which options are most appropriate for you.
When should I see a podiatrist for high arch (cavus foot)?
It is a good idea to seek professional help if you have ongoing foot pain, instability, frequent ankle sprains, or toe changes like hammertoes or claw toes. At Sharma Foot & Ankle Specialist in Plano, TX, the team provides personalized care for high arch and other foot and ankle concerns, and you can book an appointment online. Getting evaluated early can help you find relief before discomfort holds you back.