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Alternative names
Pes cavus; High foot archDefinition Return to top
High arch, or pes cavus, is when the toe-to-heel arch of the foot is excessively elevated.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
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.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Treatment Return to top
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.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The expectations depend on the underlying neurological condition, although in mild cases, appropriate shoewear and arch supports may provide excellent relief.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call your health care provider if you suspect you are having foot pain related to high arches.Prevention Return to top
People with highly arched feet should be evaluated for underlying neurological and orthopedic conditions. Identifying these other conditions may help prevent or lessen impending arch problems. Update Date: 2/12/2003 Updated by: Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Joint Diseases, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 September 2004 |