High Arches (Cavus Foot)
An unusually high foot arch
Quick Facts
- Type: Foot structure (musculoskeletal) condition
- Key feature: Arch raised higher than normal
- Common effects: Foot pain, instability, frequent ankle sprains
- Sometimes linked to: Nerve or muscle conditions
Overview
High arches, also called cavus foot, describe a foot in which the arch along the inside is raised higher than usual. Because the arch is so high, body weight is concentrated on the ball and heel of the foot rather than spread evenly, which can lead to pain and instability.
Some people are simply born with high arches and have few problems, while in others the arch is high because of an underlying nerve or muscle condition. When high arches are linked to a neurological cause, the arch may continue to rise over time, so finding the reason behind the foot shape is an important part of care.
Symptoms
High arches can cause a range of symptoms related to how weight is distributed across the foot.
- Pain in the ball or heel of the foot, especially when standing or walking
- A foot that looks high-arched even when bearing weight
- Calluses on the ball, side, or heel of the foot
- Frequent ankle sprains due to instability
- Toes that claw or curl
- Difficulty finding comfortable, well-fitting shoes
If high arches are caused by a nerve condition, there may also be weakness or numbness in the foot or leg.
Causes
High arches can be present from birth or develop because of an underlying condition. Causes include:
- Inherited foot shape: Some people naturally have high arches with no underlying disease.
- Neurological conditions: Disorders affecting the nerves and muscles of the leg, such as inherited nerve conditions, can pull the foot into a high arch.
- Muscle imbalance from nerve injury, stroke, or other conditions.
When high arches appear or worsen, particularly on one side, doctors look carefully for a neurological cause.
Risk Factors
- A family history of high arches or inherited nerve conditions
- Neurological or muscle disorders affecting the legs
- Previous nerve injury, stroke, or spinal cord problem
- Foot or ankle injuries
Diagnosis
A doctor or foot specialist examines the foot and looks for any underlying cause. Evaluation may include:
- Physical examination: Assessing the arch, watching you walk, and checking for calluses and instability.
- Neurological assessment: Testing strength, sensation, and reflexes, since nerve conditions are a key cause.
- X-rays: To examine the bones and the degree of the arch.
- Nerve testing or imaging if a neurological cause is suspected.
Treatment
Treatment aims to relieve pressure, improve stability, and address any underlying condition.
- Custom orthotics: Shoe inserts that cushion and better distribute weight across the foot.
- Supportive footwear: Shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and a stable design; high-topped styles can help with ankle support.
- Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stabilize the foot and ankle.
- Bracing: Ankle supports for people with weakness or frequent sprains.
- Surgery: Considered for severe, painful, or progressive cases, or to correct the underlying deformity.
- Treating the cause: Managing any underlying nerve or muscle condition.
Prevention
High arches usually cannot be prevented, but their symptoms and complications can be reduced.
- Wear supportive, cushioned footwear that fits well
- Use orthotics to spread pressure and improve comfort
- Strengthen the foot and ankle to reduce sprains
- Address foot pain early before calluses and instability worsen
- Have any progressive change in foot shape evaluated for an underlying cause
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor or podiatrist if high arches cause foot pain, frequent ankle sprains, calluses, or trouble walking, or if the arch seems to be getting higher over time. A rising arch, especially on one side, should be checked for a nerve cause.
Seek prompt evaluation if high arches are accompanied by new weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking, as these can signal a neurological condition that needs attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes high arches?
Some people are simply born with high arches and have no underlying disease. In others, the high arch is caused by a neurological condition affecting the nerves and muscles of the leg, which is why a rising or one-sided arch should be evaluated.
Are high arches a problem?
Not always. Many people with naturally high arches have few symptoms. Problems arise when the raised arch concentrates pressure on the ball and heel, causing pain, calluses, instability, and frequent ankle sprains.
How are high arches treated?
Treatment usually starts with custom orthotics and supportive, cushioned footwear to spread pressure, along with physical therapy and ankle support to improve stability. Surgery is reserved for severe, painful, or progressive cases.
Can high arches be a sign of a nerve condition?
Yes. When high arches develop or worsen, especially on one side, they can be a sign of an underlying nerve or muscle disorder such as an inherited neuropathy. Doctors often check strength, sensation, and reflexes to look for this.
When should I see a doctor about high arches?
See a doctor if high arches cause pain, recurrent ankle sprains, calluses, or walking difficulty, or if the arch is getting higher. New weakness, numbness, or trouble walking should be evaluated promptly for a neurological cause.
References
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (OrthoInfo). Cavus Foot (High-Arched Foot).
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
- American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).