Pes Cavus: A Complete Guide to Understanding and Treating this Condition
What is pes cavus?
Pes cavus is a structural deformity of the foot characterized by an excessively high plantar arch. This condition causes a disproportionate amount of weight to be loaded on the heel and ball of the foot, which can lead to various mobility problems and pain. Unlike flat feet, pes cavus is less common but tends to be more painful due to the uneven distribution of pressure and stress on the foot.
Causes of pes cavus
Pes cavus can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Neurological: Conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, cerebral palsy or stroke can affect the nerves and muscles of the foot, leading to the development of a high arch.
- Genetics: Genetic predisposition also plays an important role in the development of pes cavus.
- Traumatic: Previous injuries to the foot or ankle can alter the structure of the foot, resulting in a high arch.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of pes cavus can vary, but the most common include:
- Foot pain, especially in the heel and ball of the foot.
- Calluses and hardness due to uneven weight distribution.
- Instability and tendency to twist the ankle.
- Difficulty in finding suitable footwear.
- Possible knee, hip and back problems due to abnormal foot alignment.
Diagnosis of pes cavus
Diagnosis of pes cavus usually begins with a physical evaluation by a podiatrist.
This evaluation may include:
- Medical history: Review medical history and current symptoms.
- Physical Examination: Visual inspection and palpation of the foot.
- Biomechanical study: Gait analysis and plantar pressure distribution.
- Diagnostic Imaging: X-rays, MRI or CT scans to evaluate bone structure and soft tissues.
Treatment Options
Treatment of pes cavus varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause.
Options include:
Conservative Treatments
- Orthopedic Insoles: Customized to provide support and redistribute foot pressure.
- Appropriate Footwear: Shoes that offer additional support and sufficient space to avoid excessive pressure.
- Physiotherapy: Exercises to strengthen foot muscles and improve stability.
- Medications: Analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve pain.
Surgical Interventions
- Soft Tissue Surgery: To release or transfer tendons and relieve tension.
- Osteotomy: Remodeling of the bones of the foot to correct deformity.
- Arthrodesis: Fusion of joints to stabilize the foot.
Prevention and Care
Although it is not always possible to prevent pes cavus, some measures can help manage symptoms and prevent complications:
- Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good support and cushioning.
- Regular Exercises: Maintain strength and flexibility of the foot and ankle muscles.
- Weight Control: Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the load on the feet.
- Regular Consultations: Visit the podiatrist for periodic evaluations and treatment adjustments.
Conclusion
Pes cavus is a complex condition that requires an individualized approach for effective management.
At Clinica San Roman, our team of podiatric experts is dedicated to providing accurate diagnoses and advanced treatments to improve our patients’ quality of life.
Whether through conservative treatments or surgical interventions, our goal is to relieve pain and restore normal foot function.
