A foot with an unusually high arch is referred to as the Cavus Foot. The condition may lead to excessive weight bearing on the heel and ball of the foot causing a host of physical inadequacies. Cavus Foot may affect one or both feet and may occur at any age irrespective of gender. This defect has the chances of progressing, specifically if it is accompanied by any neurological problems.
Causes
- It may be a result of a genetic abnormality in the foot structure
- Neurological diseases such as Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, stroke or Muscular Dystrophy could eventually cause the development of a Cavus Foot
- Past injuries to the foot
Symptoms
- The abnormally high foot arch is noticeable when the person is standing
- Pain and instability while moving
- Frequent ankle and foot sprains
- Due to the lack of stability, the patient may tend to clench the toes while walking. This can result in the growth of Hammer Toes
- Muscular weakness may cause Foot Drop
- Change in gait as the person may start dragging the foot/feet while moving
Diagnosis
- The patient’s genetic history and medical conditions in the past may be reviewed by the doctor X-ray examination may be required to assess the changes in the bone structure
- A neurological test may be required for accurate diagnosis
- The doctor may test the foot and limbs for loss of muscular strength and check for the range of motion
- Analysis of the gait
- The visible symptoms may be taken into consideration
Treatment
- Customized orthotic devices such as shoe inserts may be used to provide support to the foot while walking or standing Bracing may be recommended in case of foot drop as well as to hold the ankle in the right position
- The shoes may be chosen as per the doctor’s recommendation to provide better support to the heel and ball of the foot
- Surgical intervention may be required if conservative methods of treatment do not provide relief. The procedure may be done to alter the bone structure permanently.
- Surgery may also be recommended in case of neurological defects that may be the cause of Cavus Foot
- Hammer or Claw Toes that develop as a result of Cavus Foot may require surgical treatment
- Exercises that aim at strengthening the leg and thigh muscles as well as improve the flexibility of the foot may be incorporated
- Activity modification and avoidance of weight-bearing may be recommended post-surgery to allow the soft tissue and altered bone structures to heal
For complete diagnosis and treatment of Cavus Foot, schedule an appointment with our orthopedic foot and ankle doctors.
