Cavus foot, also known as high-arched foot, is a condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally raised. Unlike flat feet, where the arch collapses, cavus foot causes the weight of the body to be unevenly distributed, often putting excessive pressure on the ball and heel of the foot. This imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms and secondary issues.
Cavus foot can be inherited or develop over time due to neuromuscular disorders. In many cases, it is linked to conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or even past trauma to the foot or ankle. However, it can also be idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown and not linked to any underlying disease.
People with cavus foot often have:
A noticeably high arch, visible even when standing.
Clawed or hammertoes due to muscle imbalance.
Calluses under the ball or heel of the foot.
Heel tilting inward (hindfoot varus), which may cause ankle instability.
A tendency to roll the ankles, leading to frequent sprains.
Cavus foot can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
Foot pain, especially under the heel and ball.
Instability and frequent ankle sprains.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon issues.
Difficulty finding comfortable shoes due to the shape of the foot.
Fatigue or aching in the legs and back from abnormal gait patterns.
This condition can affect people of all ages, but it's especially common in those with underlying neurological disorders. It can appear gradually or more suddenly if linked to trauma or progressive disease. A family history of high arches may also increase your risk.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and whether it is causing pain, instability, or deformity.
Conservative (non-surgical) options are typically the first step:
Custom orthotics to provide arch support and redistribute pressure.
Cushioned, wide footwear to reduce discomfort and accommodate deformities.
Bracing (such as an AFO – ankle-foot orthosis) to help with stability and prevent ankle sprains.
Physiotherapy to stretch tight muscles, strengthen weak ones, and improve gait.
If conservative measures are not effective, or if the condition continues to worsen, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures vary but may include:
Soft tissue release to lengthen tight tendons.
Osteotomy (cutting and repositioning bones) to realign the foot structure.
Tendon transfers to restore balance between muscle groups.
In some cases, fusion surgery may be necessary for severe deformities or instability.
Surgical recovery depends on the procedures performed but generally involves a period of immobilisation, non-weight bearing, and structured rehabilitation. While surgery is not used as a first line treatment, it can have positive, life changing results.
