High Arch Foot
A high arched foot, also known as a ped cavus or high instep, is where the bony arch on the inside of the foot is higher than average. A high arched foot is often not problematic, however for some individuals it can cause painful symptoms, affect balance or be a secondary consequence to an unlying condition.
What are the causes of a high arch foot?
In most cases a high arch foot is often a perfectly natural foot structure which many people are born with. This foot shape normally runs through generations of families often not causing any issues. In some cases though a high arch foot can be caused by:
- Charcot marie tooth (CMT)
- Polio
- Cerebral palsy (CP)
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Stroke
- Muscular dystrophy
- Trauma
What are the symptoms most commonly associated with a high arched foot?
- Metatarsalgia - high pressure and callus build up under the ball of the foot.
- Arch pain - normally associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Ankle sprains - recurrent ankle sprains (rolling out).
- Callus - can build up on the toe ends, heels and balls of the foot.
- Clawed toes - toe deformity can develop over time.
- Hammer toes - toe deformity can develop over time.
- Difficulty finding suitable footwear - the height of the arch and developing toe deformities can often result in commercial footwear being uncomfortable.
What are the treatment options for a high arched foot?
The treatment options for a high arched foot are:
- Insoles
- Custom made footwear
- Splints
- Night splints
- Surgery
- Medication
What treatment options do Liverpool Orthotics offer for a High arch foot?
Insoles - Insoles are an effective form of treatment to reduce or prevent the symptoms of a high arched foot. Liverpool Orthotics provide a range of custom made orthotics that exactly conform the shape of the foot with specicily placed wedges to provide a correction. The custom insoles can be adapted with softer sections to provide pin point pressure relief to sensitive areas of skin or callus build up.
Custom made footwear - Liverpool orthotics have a wide range of custom made footwear that can allow for the height of an instep and take the pressure off any toe deformities.
Splints - Splints that fit accurately around the ankle and foot can provide stability, support and comfort for a high arched foot. Liverpool Orthotics provide a range of custom made and stock splints that can prevent further deformities and reduce painful symptoms.
Resting splints - Resting splints can help support and realign the feet into an optimal position at night or when at rest. The resting splints can apply a prolonged stretch to tight muscles and help to slow down any developing deformities.
What does an assessment for a High arch foot with Liverpool Orthotics involve?
Liverpool Orthotics provide a comprehensive assessment to diagnose a high arched foot and to identify any underlying cause or condition. Our assessments can take place at home, school, work or at one or our clinics.
During the assessment one of our experienced HCPC and BAPO registered orthotists will take a medical and social history. The orthotist will carry out a full physical assessment including joint range of movement tests, muscle strength tests and a walking analysis.
The most appropriate treatment options will be discussed and advised. Scans, plaster casts, foam impressions or measurements will be taken of the feet and sent to our manufacturer. A suitable fitting appointment will be arranged to fit the orthotic device, plus to give advice on how to use, fit and care for the device.
To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk