High Arches Can Cause Serious Foot Problems

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While having high, inflexible arches isn’t a death sentence, it is a condition known as pes cavus and can have serious repercussions as you get older if left untreated. One of the interesting things about this condition is that even when applying weight to the foot, the arch retains most of its curved shape, but with very little flexibility. 

There are many tendons in the foot that attach to the heel and toe bones that help form the arch. When these connecting tissues work together normally, it creates a more balanced arch that helps absorb much of the stress your feet experience everyday by helping transfer weight from the forefoot to the heel section.

High arches don’t always cause pain in the initial stages, but as you get older, other foot deformities such as hammertoes and skin conditions including blisters and calluses are likely to become more prevalent. The inherent instability from having a high arch may contribute to an increased incidence ofankle sprains as well.

Treatment of high arches requires a detailed exam and analysis by your podiatrist, including a review of your medical history,  since high arches can be genetically transferred.

High Arch Treatments

Some of the conservative treatments for high arches include the following suggestions: 

  • Increased shoe and ankle support—Shoes with a wider heel base and room for ankle supports, if necessary, are very effective.
  • Custom orthotic inserts—Your podiatrist can create a specially designed arch support that fits the exact shape of your foot and provides the right amount of cushioning and stabilization. Additional inserts can help isolate and control foot abnormalities such as hammertoes and bunions.
  • Specially made foot braces—Foot drop can create a major problem that requires specially made braces for proper support of the foot and ankle.

If you are experiencing pain and discomfort from high arches or related abnormalities, see your podiatrist right away. At E.J. Nemet Podiatry in Twinsburg,  E.J. Nemet, DPM, treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions including sports injuries, pediatric foot problems, diabetic foot complications, nerve disorders, and toenail and skin conditions.With advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Dr. Nemet provides expert and compassionate care to patients in the Twinsburg and Beachwood areas. To contact us or to schedule an appointment, please call (234) 212-9940.

Common Foot ConditionsE.J. NEMET DPM, LLC