High arch

Answer 1

Definition

High arch is an excessively raised arch (also called instep) on the bottom of the foot. The arch runs from the toes to the heel. It is also called pes cavus.

High arch is the opposite of flat feet.

Alternative Names

Pes cavus; High foot arch

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

High foot arches are much less common than flat feet. However, they are more likely to be associated with an orthopedic or neurological conditions. Neuromuscular diseases that cause changes in muscle tone may lead to the development of high arches.

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 the toes (metatarsals). This condition generally makes it difficult to fit shoes. In addition, those with high arches usually need foot support. A high arch may cause significant disability.

Symptoms

• Shortened length of foot
• Difficulty fitting shoes
• Foot painassociated with walking, standing, and running

Signs and tests

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

Treatment

Corrective shoes may help to relieve pain and can improve walking. This includes orthopedic modifications to the shoes, such as an arch insert and a support insole. Surgery to flatten the foot is sometimes necessary in severe cases. Any underlying neurological problems, if present, must be treated by appropriate specialists.

Expectations (prognosis)

The expectations depend on the underlying neurological condition, although in mild cases, appropriate shoe wear and arch supports may provide welcome relief.

Complications

• Chronicpain
• Difficulty walking

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you suspect you are having foot pain related to high arches.

Prevention

People with highly arched feet should be evaluated for underlying neurological and orthopedic conditions. Identifying these other conditions may help prevent or lessen impending arch problems.

Answer 2

Definition

High arch is an arch that 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 is the opposite of flat feet.

Alternative Names

Pes cavus; High foot arch; High instep

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 instep looks hollow and most of the weight is on the back and balls of the foot (metatarsals head).

Your health care provider 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

Treatment

High arches -- especially ones that are flexible or well cared for -- may not need any treatment.

Corrective shoes may help relieve pain and improve walking. This includes changes to the shoes, such as an arch insert and a support insole.

Surgery to flatten the foot is sometimes needed in severe cases. Any nerve problems that exist must be treated by specialists.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outlook depends on the condition causing high arches. In mild cases, wearing appropriate shoes and arch supports may provide relief.

Complications

• Chronicpain
• Difficulty walking

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you suspect you are having foot pain related to high arches.

Prevention

People with highly arched feet should be checked for nerve and bone conditions. Identifying these other conditions may help prevent or reduce arch problems.

Reviewed By

Review Date: 11/12/2010

Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.