Pes Cavus

Pes cavus is the technical name for a high arched or supinated foot. The biggest problem with pes cavus is that it is a risk factor for a number of problems. Those with pes cavus are more likely to sprain their ankle than if they had a lower arched foot. Another problem with this foot type is that because of the higher arch, there can be shoe fitting problems over the top of the foot, so care needs to be undertaken with the purchasing of shoes. There is also altered weightbearing in the forefoot and calluses are particularly a problem. The main concern with pes cavus is that some cases are due to a neurological problem rather than a structural high arch problem. This means that all those with a higher arched pes cavus foot type need to have it checked. Most cases are managed with footwear advice and foot orthotics. A few will need pes cavus surgery.