Cavus Foot (High Arched Foot)
Cavus foot is a condition in which the foot has a very high arch. This can lead to a variety of other symptoms and can develop at any age. Cavus foot can create pain and instability, due to the excessive amount of weight that is placed on the ball and heel of the foot when walking or standing.
Causes
Cavus foot is often caused by a neurologic disorder or other medical conditions. The high arch may also occur due to an inherited structural abnormality. If the high arch is due to a neurologic disorder, it is likely to progressively worsen. On the other hand, if it does not result from neurologic disorders, it usually does not change in appearance.
Symptoms
One or more of the following symptoms may be present:
- Hammertoes (bent toes) or claw toes (toes clenched like a fist)
- Calluses on the ball, side or heel of the foot
- Pain when standing or walking
- An unstable foot due to the heel tilting inward, which can lead to ankle sprains
Some people with cavus foot may also experience foot drop, a weakness of the muscles in the foot and ankle that results in dragging the foot when taking a step. Foot drop is usually a sign of an underlying neurologic condition.
Instability Of The Affected Area
The human anatomy is structured for balance and movement. When these structures making up the joints weaken, instability of the affected area may occur.
Metatarsalgia (Pain in the Ball of the Foot)
Metatarsalgia is a condition of inflammaion and pain in the ball of the foot. It is usually from excessive pressure under the foot.
Pain On The Side Of The Foot
While pain may be felt on the inner side of the foot (medial foot pain), pain on the outer side (lateral foot pain) is more common.
Pain When Moving The Foot
If pain from moving the foot remains despite home treatments, it might be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition.
Potential Treatments
An accurate diagnosis is important because the underlying cause of cavus foot largely determines its future course. The foot is tested for muscle strength, and your walking pattern and coordination are observed. If nonsurgical treatment fails to adequately relieve pain and improve stability, your doctor will choose the best surgical procedure or combination of procedures based on your individual case.
Cavus Foot Surgery
A cavus foot has a high arch. The cavus can range from being slightly high to severely deformed, causing a patient to walk on the outside of the foot.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
In minimally invasive surgery, our doctors use a variety of techniques to operate with less damage to the body than with open surgery.
Osteotomy Surgeries
The heel bone can be realigned to achieve a different orientation, which can correct many different deformities and foot/ankle problems.
Tendon Transfer Procedures
Tendons are typically transferred in order to restore more normal movement to a foot and ankle that has lost function.
