High-Arched Feet/Pes Cavus

Description

Pes cavus is a condition in which the foot arch is higher than normal. People with high foot arches tend to put all of their weight on the ball and heel of the foot. This increases pressure in these areas and can lead to pain and irritation. While most people that have high-arched feet are born with the condition, sometimes the increased arch height is caused by an underlying neurological condition.

Symptoms

Symptoms include pain in the heel and arch region (plantar fasciitis), pain under the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia), recurrent ankle sprains, calluses under the ball of the foot, hammertoes, or calluses on top of the toes.

Treatment Options

Custom orthotics, shoe modifications, callus removal, and surgical treatment.

Treatment Option Description (with Duration)

The goal of treatment is to provide excellent arch support and prevent the secondary symptoms as listed above. Custom orthotics are very well-tolerated by people with high-arched feet. They help by equally distributing the weight at the bottom of the foot, which will then help to prevent symptoms such as pain and callus formation. If there are any calluses at the bottom of the foot, they can be shaved down to prevent immediate relief of pain. However, if the pressure from the area of the callus is not removed, the callus will likely come back. Long-term use of orthotics can also help to prevent this. Very rarely is surgery required for congenital high-arched feet. Surgery is aimed towards making the foot flatter and involve both bone and soft tissue work. These surgeries are very long and complicated and require a cast and crutches for 6-8 weeks post-op. 

Expected Outcome

Most people with high arches generally do not experience any pain. However, if you are experiencing pain and calluses secondary to high arches, these problems can be easily relieved with a pair of custom orthotics that are contoured to specifically for your feet to provide long-term support.

Relieve Foot Arch Pain Quickly With Our Customized Treatments 

If you are experiencing pain from high-arched feet, or you're suffering from any other foot/ankle pain, our NYC doctors are happy to help! Serving the Downtown and Midtown Manhattan areas of NYC, we help you get back to healthy and happy living. Call us at 917-398-3668 or book an appointment online.