Pes Cavus & High arched foot types

The opposite end of the spectrum from the flat foot types , characterized by a broad appearance high arch , prominent instep and clawed toes .The forefoot appears dropped relative to the underside of the heel when non weight bearing . Ankle movement may be limited which can then lead to increased forefoot weightbearing .

High arches may be hereditary or acquired, and the underlying cause may be neurological mechanical or neuromuscular .

The problems experienced can include :-

Difficulties fitting shoes , toe rubbing , arch/joint pain , hard skin under the ball of the foot and issues involving the body’s ability to move forward (saggital plane blockade) including back , knee , forefoot joint pains , sesamoiditis and plantar fasciitis.

Treatments include :-

• Advice on footwear design (avoid low /flat heeled shoes) ,
• Shoe stretching to help accommodate for clawed toes and foot width,
• Symptom management ( address biomechanical factors , treatment of corns / calluses / nails) .
• Surgery is only usually considered if there is considerable pain or interference with a patients mobility .