High Arches
At Ankle and Foot Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating high arches, a condition that can cause pain, instability, and other foot-related issues. Here’s everything you need to know about high arches, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What Are High Arches?
High arches, or pes cavus, occur when the arch of the foot is raised more than normal. This condition can affect one or both feet and may lead to excessive pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. High arches can be flexible or rigid and often require specialized care to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
Causes of High Arches
High arches can result from various factors, including:
- Genetics: An inherited foot structure.
- Neurological Conditions: Disorders such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, cerebral palsy, or spina bifida.
- Injury: Trauma to the foot or ankle affecting arch structure.
- Medical Conditions: Certain systemic diseases can alter foot mechanics.
Symptoms of High Arches
- Pain in the feet, especially in the heel or ball of the foot.
- Difficulty finding comfortable, properly fitting shoes.
- Instability or frequent ankle sprains due to improper weight distribution.
- Development of calluses or corns on the heel, ball of the foot, or toes.
- Toe deformities, such as hammertoes or claw toes.
Diagnosis
At Ankle and Foot Care, we diagnose high arches using:
- Physical Examination: Assessing foot alignment, structure, and gait.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays or MRIs to evaluate bone and soft tissue health.
- Neurological Testing: To rule out underlying neurological causes.
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatments
- Custom Orthotics: Custom insoles to redistribute pressure and provide support.
- Supportive Footwear: Shoes with extra cushioning and arch support.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.
- Medications: NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Bracing: Ankle braces to improve stability and prevent sprains.
Advanced Treatments
- Corticosteroid Injections: For severe pain or inflammation.
Surgical Options (if conservative measures are ineffective):
- Tendon Transfers: To improve muscle balance and foot alignment.
- Osteotomy: Reshaping bones to correct arch height.
- Fusion Surgery: Stabilizing joints to improve foot function.
Living with High Arches
- Choose shoes designed for high arches with adequate cushioning and support.
- Avoid high-impact activities that can strain the feet.
- Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your feet and ankles regularly.
- Monitor for changes in symptoms and seek prompt care if pain worsens.
Get Expert Care for High Arches
If you or your child is experiencing discomfort from high arches, Ankle and Foot Care is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to receive a personalized treatment plan and take the first step toward healthier, more comfortable feet.