Having a very high-arched foot can result in an uneven distribution of weight along the foot – often when standing one will notice an increased amount of weight is being applied to the balls and heel of the foot.
A Cavus Foot can be an inherited abnormality or the result of a neurologic disorder or other medical conditions such as a stroke, cerebral palsy, polio or muscular dystrophy. Often a Cavus foot will only worsen over time if it is the result of a medical condition.
Symptoms
- Calluses forming on the balls, heel or side of the foot
- Pain while standing or walking
- Hammertoe
- Claw toes – when the toes are curled in rather than straight out
- Instability in the foot and ankle
- Foot drop – weakening of the foot muscles causing the foot to drag when walking
Treatment
Non Surgical Treatment options include:
- Callus trimming
- Orthotics
- Shoe wear – high top shoes that support the ankle and/ or shoes with a wide heel may be suggested
- Bracing
If the deformity is painful and decreases the ability to perform desired activities, and makes shoe fitting difficult surgery may be performed to correct the deformity. Podiatric Surgeons will perform a clinical examination, review X-rays and other diagnostic imaging, and assess your post-operative goals to guide your treatment.