High Arches (Cavovarus)

Due to a variety of causes, some people have very high arches in their feet and the heel bone turns in. Often this is present since birth but does not cause problems until later in adulthood. There are some inherited / familial conditions which can cause this and some neurological conditions.

This foot alignment is called cavovarus and patients can often present with pain, recurrent ankle sprains or fractures which alerts doctors to the underlying cause. The entire lower leg can be affected from calf down to the toes.

This is a complex three dimensional deformity of bones, muscles and ligaments. Every patient is different and requires a different set of problems addressed.

Treatment options:

Non operative treatment

  • Orthotics review for corrective insoles and modification of shoes

  • Ankle bracing

  • Physiotherapy for stretching and strengthening exercises

  • Corticosteroid and/or PRP injections

Surgical treatment is usually reserved for those who have ongoing symptoms despite the above treatments. The specific operation recommended depends on the type and location of the problem

Operations performed: