Understanding High-Arched Feet
Pes cavus, commonly referred to as high-arched feet, is a condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally elevated. This structural abnormality often leads to an uneven distribution of weight, placing excessive pressure on the ball and heel of the foot. While pes cavus can occur in one or both feet, it often causes discomfort, instability, and an increased risk of injury.
At Gotham Footcare, we understand how pes cavus can affect your daily activities and are dedicated to providing personalized care to address its symptoms and underlying causes.
Genetic Factors
Many cases of pes cavus are hereditary, with the condition running in families. In these instances, high arches are a natural structural variation.
Neurological Disorders
Conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, cerebral palsy, and spina bifida can contribute to the development of pes cavus by altering the balance of muscles and tendons in the foot.
Trauma or Injury
Previous injuries, such as fractures or nerve damage, can disrupt the structure of the foot, leading to high arches.
Muscle Imbalances
An imbalance between the muscles that control the arch can result in a progressive elevation, commonly seen in neurological conditions.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Chronic conditions like polio or stroke can also lead to pes cavus by affecting the nerves and muscles in the foot.
Pain in the Ball and Heel of the Foot
Excessive pressure on the ball and heel can lead to discomfort, particularly during weight-bearing activities.
Instability and Ankle Sprains
Pes cavus can cause instability in the foot, increasing the likelihood of frequent ankle sprains.
Calluses and Corns
Uneven weight distribution may result in the formation of calluses or corns on the ball and heel of the foot.
Toe Deformities
High arches often lead to claw toes or hammertoes, as the toes compensate for instability.
Foot Fatigue and Weakness
The strain placed on the muscles and tendons of the foot can cause fatigue and a feeling of weakness.
Difficulty Finding Comfortable Footwear
Individuals with pes cavus often struggle to find shoes that accommodate their high arches, leading to discomfort and irritation.
How Gotham Footcare Can Help
Comprehensive Physical Examination
Our podiatrists will examine your foot structure, gait, and range of motion to assess the severity of your high arches.
Medical History Review
We will discuss your symptoms, family history, and any underlying conditions or injuries to identify contributing factors.
Imaging Tests
X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may be used to evaluate the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the foot, ensuring an accurate diagnosis.
Managing High Arches at Home
Arch Supports and Orthotics
Using over-the-counter arch supports or custom orthotics can help distribute pressure more evenly and reduce discomfort.
Stretching Exercises
Regular stretching of the calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and alleviate tension.
Supportive Footwear
Choosing shoes with good arch support and cushioning can provide comfort and reduce strain on the foot.
Icing and Rest
Applying ice to areas of pain and limiting high-impact activities can reduce inflammation and prevent further discomfort.
Toe Strengthening Exercises
Simple exercises, like toe curls and picking up small objects with your toes, can help strengthen the muscles and improve balance.
Personalized Care for Lasting Relief
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are designed to provide support tailored to your specific foot structure, relieving pressure points and improving alignment.
Physical Therapy
Targeted physical therapy can strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance balance, reducing the risk of injury.
Bracing
In cases of significant instability, ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) may be recommended to provide additional support and prevent ankle sprains.
Corticosteroid Injections
If inflammation is present, corticosteroid injections can provide targeted relief for pain and swelling.
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy stimulates healing and reduces pain in soft tissues affected by pes cavus.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP injections promote tissue regeneration and may be used to address soft tissue injuries associated with pes cavus.
For severe cases of pes cavus that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary. Surgical options include:
Osteotomy
An osteotomy involves reshaping or repositioning the bones of the foot to improve alignment and reduce high arches.
Tendon Transfer
In this procedure, tendons are repositioned to balance muscle function and improve foot stability.
Fusions
Joint fusions may be recommended to stabilize the foot and alleviate pain caused by severe deformities.
Plantar Fascia Release
For individuals with significant pain in the arch, releasing tension in the plantar fascia can provide relief.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Pes Cavus?
Non-Surgical RecoveryPatients who use orthotics, physical therapy, or bracing often experience improvement within weeks to months.
Post-Surgical RecoverySurgical recovery times vary depending on the procedure, but most patients can expect a healing period of 6–12 weeks, followed by physical therapy to restore strength and mobility.
Tips for Healthy Feet
Wearing supportive shoes with a wide toe box, cushioning, and a sturdy sole can help prevent complications associated with pes cavus.
Custom orthotics provide ongoing support and reduce the strain on your foot structure.
Regularly stretching and strengthening the muscles in your feet and calves can improve balance and reduce tension on the arch.
If you’re prone to pes cavus, minimize high-impact activities or alternate them with low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling.
If you notice changes in your arch height or experience new symptoms, seek professional evaluation to address potential issues early.
Pes cavus can be caused by genetic factors, neurological conditions, trauma, or muscle imbalances.
Yes, many cases can be managed with conservative treatments such as orthotics, physical therapy, and supportive footwear.
Pes cavus can cause pain due to uneven weight distribution, leading to pressure on the ball and heel of the foot.
A combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests is used to diagnose pes cavus.
While genetic factors cannot be changed, wearing supportive footwear, using orthotics, and maintaining strong, flexible muscles can help prevent complications.
At Gotham Footcare in NYC, we strive at recognizing your individual needs and desired outcomes while formulating an effective and personalized treatment plan with the highest quality care available.
What sets Gotham Footcare apart from other podiatry offices is our dedication to providing you with the education you need to make well-informed decisions regarding your care. Regardless of what your foot and ankle trouble may be, at Gotham Footcare our team will work tirelessly to help you feel better. At Gotham Footcare, we help you put your best foot forward.
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