High Arches & High Instep (Pes Cavus)
DIAGNOSIS & TREATMENT
Most people have an arch along the inner side of the foot, leaving a gap between the ground and the foot. Some feet have a higher arch than average, and this is the opposite of a flatfoot (pes planus). In combination with a higher arch, the ankle may be "rolled" outwards slightly - this is the opposite of a pronated foot. Often this gets referred to as pes cavus.
When standing with weight on the foot, the arch will appear higher. The heel often tilted inwards at the ankle (but not always). In many, the toes will appeared clawed. When not standing the front half of the foot (forefoot) will appear to be dropped below the level of the rearfoot.
High arch feet may just be a normal variant (i.e. some people just have higher arches), some may be hereditary (i.e. runs in the family) and in some cases there may be an underlying neurological problem that is causing it.
The symptoms associated with high arches will vary depending on how severe the condition is and the activity levels of the person with it. Most will have no pain or any other symptoms. Symptoms may vary from a mild problem with shoe fitting to significant disability.
Some symptoms can include:
- Corns and calluses under the bases of the first and fifth toes.
- Difficulty finding shoes that fit.
- Pain in the arch area.
- Stiffness and loss of mobility
- Frequent ankle sprains.
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Dr. Michael Horowitz offers a 5-Step process to successfully treating High Arches. He can help evaluate & diagnose your condition and recommend the best course of action for you. Call Vancouver Orthotics at 604-737-3668 for more information.
YOU MIGHT HAVE THESE QUESTIONS ABOUT HIGH ARCHES TREATMENT:
- What is the most effective treatment for high arches?
- What exercises & stretches do you recommend for high arches?
- What other symptoms are most commonly associated with high arches?
- What shoes are best for high arches?
- Where can I get medical hardware for high arches?
- Why is the pain so chronic?
