A high arch, also referred to as a Pes Cavus foot, is one where the longitudinal arch is so high that upon foot strike, part of the foot does not touch the ground. This leaves only the heel, metatarsal heads and toes to distribute the weight of the body during the step.
A foot of this type is also known to have a “high instep.” This condition creates some difficulty with some shoes being too tight or pinching at the top of the instep.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Pes Cavus
- Supinating foot
- Pes arcuatus
- Hollow foot
Symptoms:
- Pain in mid foot (longitudinal arch)
- Pain in metatarsals (ball of foot)
- Heel pain
Signs to look for:
- Arch portion of foot makes no contact with the ground
- High instep
- Calluses in metatarsal areas and on big toes
Possible Causes:
- Heredity
- Some neurological conditions create pes cavus feet
Goals:
- Support the arches
- Balance the weight over the entire foot during gait
- Take pressure off the metatarsals and toes
- Eliminate callusing
- Take shoe pressure off the instep
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Curved last
- Bloucher style lacing shoe
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary
- Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only
Other:
- Use horizontal lacing instead of cross lacing if instep is tender
- Regular callus filing with pumice device (leaving cutting of calluses to a physician only)
Activities:
Rotate weight-bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: PFA, Professional Shoe Fitting (Pedorthic Footwear Association) Text: B. Meanwell, CPed, R. Cailliet, MD, Foot and Ankle Pain