Pes Cavus

(high arched foot)

INTRODUCTION

Most people have a gap between the inner side of the foot and the ground when they are standing. This is referred to as an "arch". Small children do not have an arch; the arch begins to form between the ages of 3 and 10. Feet that have a high arch are sometimes referred to as cavus type feet.

APPEARANCE

• On standing the person will have a high arch.
• The heel may be drawn towards the inner side and the toes may be drawn inwards.
• Some people with pes cavus have clawed toes.
• The front of the foot may appear to be dropped or drawn downwards. The results in the 1st Ray (1st toe Joint) and the 5th Ray (5th toe joint) to be dropped.

SYMPTOMS

• The symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition.
• The patient may experience corns or hard skin under the sole of the foot. Especially under the 1st and 5th toes.
• Shoes may wear out quickly.
• Pain or tenderness along the arch.
• Shoes may be very difficult to fit, especially around the ankle.
• Stiffness of the feet.
• With severe pes cavus, problems such as calf pain, knee pain and hip pain may be present.
• Some patients may suffer from ankle sprains very easily.

CAUSE

• It may be hereditary, i.e. runs in the family.
• In most cases the exact cause can not be discovered
• Cerebral palsy, spina bifida and muscular dystrophy can also lead to a flat foot condition.

WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR IT

• Visit your State Registered Chiropodist if you have any queries on the diagnosis of your condition.
• Wear wide fitting shoes.
• Do not try to treat the secondary lesion (i.e. Corns) yourself.

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WHAT THE CHIROPODIST WILL DO FOR IT

• Firstly, the chiropodist must correctly diagnose the condition.
• The chiropodist may recommend insoles in order to control the symptoms.
• The chiropodist may recommend ultrasound, laser therapy or massage therapy to reduce the pain in the arch.
• Treat any secondary lesions such as corns.
• The use of silicone pads and removal pads may be explored.
• In severe cases, the chiropodist may recommend corrective surgery. There are many surgical procedures available for the treatment of pes cavus.
• The Chiropodist may recommend an exercise regime in order to strengthen the ankle ligaments.

AS ALWAYS SEEK ADVICE FROM A STATE REGISTERED CHIROPODIST