High Arch Feet

High arch feet problem is an arch that is raised more than normal. High arch feet may be genetic, or they may be caused by a number of underlying conditions. People with high arches may experience pain, and in some cases, permanent damage to their foot structure. There are several treatments available, including orthotics, splints, physical therapy and surgery.

High Arch Feet

Pes cavus is the scientific term that describes high arch feet. As podiatric physicians, we are very interested not only in structure but also in function of the feet. While very few people have 20-20 vision, it is also true that very few people have perfect arch structure.

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High and low arch feet are just the two ends of the spectrum of foot structure. The more deviation from what is considered perfect, the worse the function becomes. We describe deviation from "the ideal" as imbalance in structure. It is the imbalance in structure that leads to abnormal function. Abnormal function causes pain and/or deformity. Deformity can manifest itself in a variety of foot problems such as bunions or hammertoes.

Likewise, pain can manifest itself in a variety of ways such as heel pain ( plantar fasciitis or heel spur),corns or calluses, metatarsalgia or pain in the ball of the foot (neuromas, stress fractures, or tendonitis), even in paediatric cases. Invariably, we can treat most foot imbalance or biomechanical insufficiencies with orthotic therapy.

As a general rule, High Arch Feet procedures are performed on an out-patient basis in an Alberta Health Services (AHS) approved Surgical Center or in a Hospital. Surgical procedural costs are covered by AHS or the patient may opt for private surgery to avoid a waiting time. A visit to Feldman & Leavitt Foot And Ankle Specialists will CLEARLY define all available patient options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you know if you have high arch feet?

What are the symptoms and causes of high arch foot?

Causes - A neurologic disorder or another medical condition, such as cerebral palsy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, spina bifida, polio, muscular dystrophy, or stroke, is frequently the cause of high arch feet or Cavus foot. The high arch feet may represent an inherited structural abnormality in other cases of High Arch Feet. An accurate diagnosis is critical because the underlying cause of High Arch Feet heavily influences its course. If the high arch is caused by a neurological disorder or another medical condition, it is likely to worsen over time. Cases of High Arch Feet that do not result from neurologic disorders, on the other hand, usually do not change in appearance.

Symptoms - Even when standing, high arch feet, also known as cavus feet, will appear high. Furthermore, one or more of the following symptoms could be present:

Hammertoes (bent toes) or claw toes are two types of toes (toes clenched like a fist)
Foot calluses on the ball, side, or heel
Standing or walking pain
An unstable foot as a result of the heel tilting inward, which can result in ankle sprains.

Some people with cavus foot may also have foot drop, which is a weakness of the muscles in the foot and ankle that causes the foot to drag when taking a step. Foot drop is usually the result of a neurologic condition.

What should I do if you were diagnosed with a high arch feet?

A review of the patient's family history is included in the diagnosis of cavus foot. The foot and ankle surgeon examines the foot for high arches, calluses, hammertoes, and claw toes. Muscle strength is tested in the foot, and the patient's walking pattern and coordination are observed. If a neurologic condition is suspected, the entire limb may be examined. The surgeon may also examine the wear pattern on the patient's shoes.

X-rays are occasionally ordered to further evaluate the condition. Furthermore, the surgeon may refer the patient to a neurologist for a thorough neurologic examination.

Do I need surgery to correct my high arch feet?

Surgery may be required to lessen discomfort, promote stability, and compensate for the foot's weakening if nonsurgical treatment is insufficient to do so. Based on each patient's unique situation, the surgeon will select the optimal surgical treatment or combination of procedures. Surgery may be required again in the future in some situations where an underlying neurologic condition exists due to the disorder's progression.

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For more information on High Arch Feet, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons

For more information on High Arch Feet, book a surgical consultation with one of our board certified podiatric surgeons

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