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Pes Cavus or High-Arched Foot

ICD 10 - Q66.7

Pes cavus, a high-arched foot or cavus foot is a condition in which the foot has a very high arch. Due to the increased arch, the pressure and force applied on the heel and ball of the foot are increased during physical activity. Cavus foot is either the result of a congenital condition or, usually, a progressive neuropathic disorder.

Symptoms:

• Hammertoes or the curling of the toes
• Claw toes or the clenching of the toes
• Increased pain during physical activity
• Calluses on the ball or heel of the of the foot
• Instability of the foot

Diagnosis:

To reach a diagnosis of pes cavus, a clinician will look at the patient’s family medical history and perform a physical, biomechanical examination. The foot will be tested for stability and indications of pathology. Testing for neurological issues may result in a much broader test of the limbs and in imaging studies.

Treatment:

A significant pes cavus will result in altered biomechanics due to the pressure and angling of the heel and midfoot. Treatment and correction of these pathological biomechanics may be helped with orthotics, shoe modifications and braces to stabilize the foot and realign necessary tissues. This realignment allows for healing, the relieving of pain and increased stability.

If the above conservative treatments do not work in increasing functionality and relieving pain, surgery may be considered a needed option.

Source:

https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/cavus-foot-(high-arched-foot)
https://www.rehabmypatient.com/ankle/high-arched-foot