High Arched Feet

High Arch Feet (Pes Cavus) is a condition where the arch of the foot is raised more than normal. The arch, or instep, runs from the toes to the heel on the bottom of the foot. It is also called pes cavus.

High arch feet is the opposite of flat feet.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

High foot arches are much less common than flat feet. They are more likely to be caused by a bone (orthopedic) or nerve (neurological) condition.

Unlike flat feet, highly arched feet tend to be painful because more stress is placed on the section of the foot between the ankle and toes (metatarsals). This condition can make it difficult to fit into shoes.

People who have high arches usually need foot support. A high arch may cause disability.

Symptoms

• Shortened foot length
• Difficulty fitting shoes
• Foot pain with walking, standing, and running (not everyone has this symptom)

Signs and tests

When the person stands on the foot, the in step looks hollow and most of the weight is on the back and balls of the foot (metatarsals head).

Your doctor will check to see if the high arch is flexible, meaning it can be moved around.

Tests that may be done include:

• Electromyography
• MRI of the spine
• Nerve conduction studies
• X-ray of the feet
• X-ray of the spine