Pes cavus is a condition in which the arch of the foot is very high, causing an excessive amount of weight to be placed on the ball and heel of the foot when standing and walking. The deformity can occur in the forefoot, the midfoot, the hindfoot or a combination of these sites and can lead to a variety of other conditions and symptoms, such as ankle sprains, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, pain and instability.

Pes cavus is generally caused by an inherited structural abnormality or a neurologic disorder or other medical condition such as cerebral palsy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, spina bifida, polio, muscular dystrophy, or stroke that can cause muscle imbalances. If the high arch is due to a neurological disorder or other medical condition, such as the ones mentioned above, the problem is likely to progressively worsen.

At Mint Foot Care Podiatry, we will examine the foot, looking for high arches and possible calluses, hammertoes and claw toes to diagnose pes cavus. A biomechanical assessment and video gait analysis will be performed. Referral for diagnostic imaging as X-rays may be prescribed.

Based on the findings a combination of treatment options may be prescribed including:

• Footwear recommendations.
• Custom made orthotic therapy – orthotics may be prescribed to address any biomechanical factors such as over pronation.
• Prescribed stretching exercises.
• Dry Needling.