High arch is the opposite of flat feet. Highly arched feet are much less common than flat feet and more likely to be associated with an abnormal orthopedic or neurological condition. Neuromuscular diseases that cause changes in muscle tone may be associated with the development of high arches.

Unlike flat feet, highly arched feet tend to be painful because more stress is placed on the section of the foot between the ankle and the toes (metatarsals). Highly arched feet may make it difficult to fit shoes, generally require a foot support, and can cause significant disability.

• the foot length may be shortened because much of it is taken up in the arch
• difficulty fitting shoes
• foot pain associated with walking, standing and running

• X-ray of the feet
• X-ray of the spine
• MRI of the spine
• electromyography
• nerve conduction studies

Corrective shoes may help to relieve pain and can improve walking. This includes orthopedic modifications to the shoes, such as an arch insert and a support insole. Surgery to flatten the foot is sometimes necessary in severe cases.

• chronic pain
• difficulty walking