How to manage pes cavus (high-arched feet) effectively is a question faced by many people who experience discomfort or pain linked to this foot shape.
High arches place more pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, often leading to corns, calluses, and even ankle instability.
While aids such as learning how do corn pads work can ease pressure points, effective management involves a combination of supportive footwear, exercises, and medical advice when needed.
This article explains the causes, symptoms, and treatment strategies that can help people with pes cavus live more comfortably.
What Is Pes Cavus?
Definition
Pes cavus refers to a condition where the arch of the foot is higher than normal. Unlike flat feet, which collapse inward, high-arched feet remain rigid and transfer more weight to specific areas.
How It Differs from Normal Arches
A normal arch distributes weight evenly across the foot. In pes cavus, the heel and ball absorb most of the pressure, increasing the likelihood of pain and skin problems.
Who Experiences It?
Pes cavus can appear at any age. Some people inherit the condition, while others develop it due to neurological issues, muscle imbalances, or injuries.
Causes of High-Arched Feet
Genetic Factors
Some people are simply born with naturally high arches. This inherited trait can run in families.
Neurological Conditions
Diseases such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth and cerebral palsy may cause structural changes in the feet, including high arches.
Muscle Imbalances
Weakness in certain muscles and overactivity in others can raise the arch, altering the way weight is carried.
Injury or Trauma
In rare cases, injuries to the spine or foot can lead to pes cavus by changing muscle control.
Recognising the Symptoms
Pain and Discomfort
People with high arches often experience foot pain, particularly in the heel or ball of the foot after long periods of standing or walking.
Skin Problems
Corns and calluses frequently develop because of uneven pressure. Blisters may also appear where shoes rub.
Instability
Ankle sprains are more common in pes cavus due to the reduced ability of the foot to absorb shock.
Toe Deformities
Claw toes or hammertoes may develop as the toes grip the ground for balance.
How to Manage Pes Cavus (High-Arched Feet) Effectively with Home Care
Supportive Footwear
Wearing shoes with cushioned soles, wide toe boxes, and strong heel counters helps distribute weight more evenly. Trainers with thick midsoles often provide the most comfort.
Insoles and Orthotics
Prefabricated insoles or custom orthotics can correct alignment, provide arch support, and cushion pressure points.
Skin Protection
Using protective pads or silicone cushions reduces friction and prevents corns and calluses. Regular moisturising also helps prevent cracks.
Stretching and Strengthening
Calf Stretches
Tight calves often worsen pes cavus. Stretching the calf muscles daily reduces strain on the heel and improves ankle mobility.
Plantar Fascia Stretch
Pulling the toes back towards the shin stretches the fascia, reducing tension in the arch.
Strengthening Small Muscles
Exercises such as towel scrunches or marble pickups strengthen intrinsic foot muscles, improving balance and reducing pressure on the heel and forefoot.
Professional Treatments
Podiatry Care
Podiatrists provide tailored orthotics, treat corns and calluses, and recommend footwear suited to high arches.
Physical Therapy
Therapists guide patients through strengthening routines and use techniques to improve ankle stability.
Bracing
In cases of severe instability, ankle braces or supportive boots may be prescribed.
Surgery
Surgery is a last option for very severe cases. Procedures may involve tendon transfers, bone reshaping, or fusions to reduce pain and correct deformities.
Daily Habits That Help
Rotate Footwear
Rotating between different pairs of shoes ensures pressure is not always placed in the same areas.
Regular Foot Checks
Inspecting feet for early signs of corns, blisters, or swelling allows for prompt care.
Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress placed on feet with high arches.
Gradual Exercise Increases
Avoid sudden increases in running or jumping activities to reduce the risk of pain or sprains.
How to Manage Pes Cavus (High-Arched Feet) Effectively in Sports
Choosing Sports Shoes
Athletes with pes cavus need shoes with enhanced shock absorption and lateral support to reduce injury risk.
Warm-Up and Cool-Down
Stretching before and after sport prevents stiffness and maintains flexibility.
Cross-Training
Incorporating low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling gives the feet time to recover while maintaining fitness.
Skin Care for High-Arched Feet
Corn and Callus Prevention
Regularly filing thickened skin with a pumice stone prevents discomfort. Moisturising creams reduce friction.
Protective Devices
Pads and cushions placed on pressure spots help redistribute load and prevent blisters.
Nail Care
Trimming toenails straight across prevents ingrown nails, which may occur more often due to altered foot mechanics.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Workplace Strategies
Using cushioned mats or taking regular sitting breaks reduces stress during long hours on hard floors.
Home Footwear
Supportive slippers or sandals with contoured footbeds are better than walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
Long-Term Self-Care
Consistent stretching, proper footwear, and protective padding help manage symptoms over the years.
Myths About High-Arched Feet
Myth 1: Only Flat Feet Cause Problems
High arches are just as likely to lead to pain, instability, and long-term issues as flat feet.
Myth 2: Surgery Is Always Necessary
Most people manage pes cavus effectively with footwear, orthotics, and exercises. Surgery is rare.
Myth 3: Insoles Are Uncomfortable
Modern orthotics are lightweight and designed for comfort, often improving mobility rather than hindering it.
Conclusion
How to manage pes cavus (high-arched feet) effectively comes down to supportive footwear, regular stretching, strengthening exercises, and protective skin care.
While aids such as insoles, pads, and orthotics provide comfort, long-term management also requires healthy lifestyle habits and professional guidance when needed.
With the right approach, people with high arches can reduce pain, prevent complications, and maintain an active, comfortable lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pes cavus be corrected permanently?
In most cases, pes cavus cannot be permanently corrected without surgery. However, effective management through footwear, orthotics, and exercises can significantly reduce discomfort.
What type of shoes are best for high-arched feet?
Shoes with cushioned midsoles, arch support, and wide toe boxes work best. Avoid thin soles or narrow shoes that increase pressure.
Is pes cavus linked to other health conditions?
Yes, in some cases pes cavus is associated with neurological conditions. If symptoms worsen rapidly, medical assessment is advised.