High Arched Foot

Patient Information

http://www.foothealthfacts.org/footankleinfo/cavus-foot.htm

https://www.bofas.org.uk/Patient-Information/Cavus-high-arched-feet

GP Information

Background Information

• A high-arched or ‘Cavus’ foot places excessive weight on the heel and ball of the foot. They are also often varus, and may place increased weight on the outer border of the foot.
• May occur at any age often due to neurological disorders or inherited structural abnormality.
• Patients typically complain of visible deformity, callosities on the ball or heel, pain on standing / walking, instability and recurrent ankle sprains.
• Additional associations include claw/hammer toes, or a foot drop.

Investigation Guidelines

• Diagnostics are not required for referral.

Management Recommendations

It is important to accurately diagnose the cause of a cavus foot and the majority of cases should be referred for specialist assessment. A unilateral progressive cavus foot warrants referral to a foot and ankle surgeon and a neurologist. Interim conservative measures include:

• Analgesia
• Activity modification
• Orthotics