Cavus foot is a condition where the arch of the foot is abnormally high, leading to excess pressure on the ball and heel when walking or standing. This can cause pain, instability, and deformities like hammertoes or claw toes. The condition can affect one or both feet and develop at any age. Cavus foot treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition.

At Northwest Extremity Specialists, our Portland-area foot and ankle surgeons offer comprehensive treatment for cavus foot, helping patients restore comfort and stability.

What Causes Cavus Foot?

Cavus foot is often associated with neurological disorders and genetic conditions, including:

• Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
• Cerebral palsy
• Spina bifida
• Polio
• Muscular dystrophy
• Stroke

Occasionally, cavus foot may result from an inherited foot structure rather than an underlying neurological disorder. Understanding the cause is crucial in predicting whether the condition will progress.

For more information on neuromuscular foot conditions, visit the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).

Symptoms of Cavus Foot

Individuals with cavus foot may experience:

• Visibly high arch, even while standing
• Hammertoes or claw toes (toes bent or clenched)
• Calluses on the ball, heel, or side of the foot
• Foot pain, especially when standing or walking
• Instability due to heel tilting inward, leading to frequent ankle sprains
• Foot drop, causing difficulty lifting the front of the foot while walking

Foot drop is a sign of an underlying neurological condition and should be evaluated by a specialist.

Diagnosing Cavus Foot

A foot and ankle surgeon will conduct a thorough examination, which may include:

• Reviewing family and medical history to determine genetic or neurological factors
• Evaluating foot structure, checking for hammertoes, calluses, or instability
• Testing muscle strength in the foot and leg
• Observing walking patterns and shoe wear for signs of imbalance
• X-rays to assess bone structure
• Neurologist referral if a neurological disorder is suspected

For additional diagnostic information, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Non-Surgical Treatment for Cavus Foot

Mild to moderate cases of cavus foot can often be managed with non-surgical treatments, including:

1. Custom Orthotics

• Provide stability and cushioning
• Help distribute weight evenly
• Reduce pressure on the heel and ball of the foot

2. Shoe Modifications

• High-topped shoes for ankle support
• Wider-heeled shoes to improve balance

3. Bracing for Foot Drop and Instability

• Keeps the foot and ankle stable
• Reduces the risk of falls and sprains

For a guide on choosing the right orthotics and braces, visit the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA).

When Is Surgery Needed for Cavus Foot?

If conservative treatments fail to relieve pain or improve stability, surgery may be necessary. Surgical goals include:

• Reducing foot pain
• Increasing foot stability
• Correcting foot deformities (such as hammertoes)
• Compensating for muscle weakness

The specific procedure depends on the severity of the condition and whether an underlying neurological disorder is present. In some cases, additional surgery may be required over time due to disease progression.

Find Expert Cavus Foot Treatment in Portland

If cavus foot is causing you pain or instability, early intervention is key to preventing complications.

Schedule an appointment with Northwest Extremity Specialists to explore effective treatment options and regain comfort and mobility.