Home
PG College
Patient Login
International patients
Contact Us
Emergency
Download Reports
Pediatric High Arch Care Pune
Get expert treatment for high arches in Pune with pediatric orthopedic specialists providing pain relief, orthotics, and surgical correction.
Overview
Pes cavus deformity is a foot condition where children develop abnormally high arches, creating an exaggerated curve along the bottom of their feet. This condition affects how children walk, balance, and participate in daily activities. Unlike flat feet, which are more commonly discussed, high arch foot problems can be equally challenging for young patients and their families.
The condition can appear at any age during childhood development, though it often becomes more noticeable as children grow and become more active. While some cases are mild and manageable, others may signal underlying neurological or muscular disorders that require immediate attention.
Symptoms
Children with high arch foot problems may experience various symptoms that can range from mild discomfort to significant functional limitations. Parents should watch for these warning signs:
- Visible high arch that appears unusually elevated when the child stands or walks
- Foot pain, particularly in the heel area or ball of the foot during activities
- Difficulty finding comfortable shoes due to the unusual foot shape
- Claw toes or hammer toes where toes curl or bend in abnormal positions
- Frequent ankle sprains due to poor shock absorption and instability
- Calluses or pressure sores on the ball, heel, or sides of the foot
- Walking abnormalities such as limping, toe walking, or an unsteady gait
- Balance problems during activities or sports
- Fatigue in the feet and legs after walking or standing
Causes
Pes cavus causes can be diverse and complex, making proper diagnosis essential for effective treatment. The condition typically develops due to muscle imbalances that affect foot positioning and arch formation.
- Neurological causes represent a significant portion of cases and include conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (a hereditary nerve disorder), cerebral palsy, or complications from polio. These conditions affect nerve function and muscle control, leading to the characteristic high arch formation.
- Congenital causes involve structural abnormalities present from birth, where the foot bones and muscles develop differently than normal. These cases often run in families and may be noticed early in a child’s development.
- Idiopathic cases occur when no clear underlying cause can be identified. In these situations, the high arch foot develops without associated neurological or muscular diseases, though the exact mechanism remains unclear.
- Traumatic causes can result from injuries to the foot, ankle, or nerves that control foot muscles. These injuries can create muscle imbalances that gradually lead to arch deformity over time.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase a child’s likelihood of developing pes cavus deformity:
- Family history of high arches or related neurological disorders
- Neuromuscular diseases diagnosed during childhood
- Previous foot or ankle injuries that affected muscle balance
- Congenital foot deformities present at birth
- Delayed diagnosis or treatment of conditions affecting foot muscles or nerves
- Certain genetic conditions that affect muscle and nerve function
Diagnosis
Diagnosing high arch foot problems requires a comprehensive evaluation by pediatric specialists. The diagnostic process typically includes several important steps:
- Medical history gathering focuses on family history, symptom onset and progression, and any previous injuries or medical conditions.
- Physical examination involves careful inspection of foot shape, arch height, toe positioning, and gait analysis. Doctors observe how the child walks, stands, and moves to identify any abnormalities.
- Neurological assessment helps detect muscle weakness, sensory changes, or reflex abnormalities that might indicate underlying neurological causes. This evaluation is crucial for determining appropriate treatment approaches.
- Imaging studies, particularly X-rays, provide detailed views of bone structure and arch height measurements. These images help confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment strategies.
- Specialized testing may include electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to assess nerve and muscle function when neurological causes are suspected. Foot pressure analysis can also reveal how weight is distributed across the foot during walking.
Types
Pes cavus types can be classified based on the location and characteristics of the arch deformity:
- Anterior cavus involves a high arch primarily at the front portion of the foot, affecting the forefoot and toes. This type often causes problems with toe positioning and weight distribution.
- Posterior cavus features elevation of both the heel and arch, creating a more dramatic overall foot shape. This type typically causes more significant balance and stability issues.
- Mixed cavus combines elements of both anterior and posterior types, creating complex deformities that may require more intensive treatment approaches.
Additionally, pes cavus deformity can be categorized as:
- Flexible cases appear high when standing but flatten when sitting or during non-weight bearing activities. These cases often respond better to conservative treatments.
- Rigid cases maintain their high arch regardless of weight bearing status and are often associated with more severe symptoms and underlying conditions.
Treatment
Pes cavus treatment approaches vary based on severity, symptoms, and underlying causes. Most children begin with conservative management before considering surgical options.
Conservative management includes:
- Orthotic devices such as custom shoe inserts that redistribute pressure and improve foot alignment
- Supportive footwear with good arch support, cushioning, and appropriate width
- Physical therapy focusing on strengthening exercises, flexibility training, and balance improvement
- Pain management using appropriate medications when necessary
Surgical intervention may be considered for severe, rigid deformities or when conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief. Surgical procedures can include tendon releases, bone cuts (osteotomies), or joint fusions to correct deformity and restore function.
High arch foot treatment success depends on early intervention and consistent follow-up care. Most children achieve significant improvement with appropriate treatment plans.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in managing pes cavus deformity and focuses on several key areas:
- Strengthening exercises target foot and ankle muscles to improve stability and function. These exercises help children develop better muscle balance and coordination.
- Balance and proprioception training reduces fall risk and improves overall coordination. This training is particularly important for children who experience frequent ankle sprains.
- Gait training helps correct walking abnormalities and teaches children how to move more efficiently. This training can significantly improve comfort and function during daily activities.
- Use of assistive devices may be necessary for some children to maintain mobility and independence. These devices are selected based on individual needs and functional goals.
Complications
Untreated pes cavus complications can significantly impact a child’s quality of life and long-term health:
- Chronic foot pain and discomfort can interfere with daily activities and sports participation. This pain often worsens over time without proper treatment.
- Frequent ankle sprains occur due to poor shock absorption and instability, potentially leading to long-term joint damage.
- Calluses and skin breakdown develop from abnormal pressure points, causing discomfort and potential infection risks.
- Toe deformities such as claw toes may become fixed and require surgical correction if left untreated.
- Arthritis can develop in foot joints due to abnormal mechanics and increased stress on joint surfaces.
- Mobility limitations may prevent children from participating in sports and activities they enjoy, affecting their social development and self-esteem.
Prevention
While congenital and neurological high arch foot causes cannot be prevented, progression can be minimized through:
- Early diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions helps prevent complications and improves outcomes.
- Regular monitoring of foot development in children with risk factors allows for timely intervention.
- Proper footwear selection and orthotic use support foot structure and reduce stress on joints.
- Physical therapy maintains muscle balance and flexibility, preventing further deformity progression.
- Injury prevention through protective measures during activities reduces the risk of traumatic causes.
Living With Pes Cavus
Children with pes cavus deformity can lead active, fulfilling lives with appropriate management:
- Treatment adherence including consistent use of orthotics and completion of prescribed exercises is essential for optimal outcomes.
- Regular follow-up with healthcare providers ensures ongoing monitoring of foot health and adjustment of treatment plans as needed.
- Activity modifications may be necessary to prevent injury while allowing continued participation in sports and activities.
- Supportive footwear choices enhance comfort and function throughout daily activities.
Key Takeaways
- Pes cavus deformity is a condition where children develop abnormally high foot arches that can affect walking, balance, and comfort
- High arch foot causes include neurological conditions, congenital abnormalities, trauma, or unknown factors
- Early recognition of symptoms like foot pain, frequent ankle sprains, and toe deformities is crucial for timely intervention
- Pes cavus treatment ranges from conservative approaches like orthotics and physical therapy to surgical correction in severe cases
- Pes cavus complications can include chronic pain, arthritis, and mobility limitations if left untreated
- With proper diagnosis and treatment, most children achieve excellent outcomes and maintain active lifestyles
- Sancheti Hospital’s pediatric orthopedic specialists provide comprehensive care for children with high arch foot problems, offering advanced diagnostic capabilities, conservative treatments, and surgical expertise to help young patients achieve optimal foot health and function
Meet Our Pediatric Orthopedic Specialists
Patient Stories & Experiences
The pain in my left knee left me feeling helpless for years. After my treatment here, I can finally say I'm pain-free.
Vinita Singh
The nerves were swollen, and the body went numb. But thanks to Sancheti Hospital, I got a second life!
Parvati
I finally could walk again, a relief I've only felt after the hip pain surgery. I thank the doctors at Sancheti Hospital for their help.
Balaji Kharat
I'm a police officer, and I'm extremely thankful to Sancheti Hospital for treating my fracture without surgery.
Shantilal
My life has completely changed after the knee replacement surgery at Sancheti Hospital. It's like I can finally live again!
Kalpana Lepcha
The knee pain I've carried for years finally went away with the help of Sancheti Hospital.
Karuna
I can't believe that I get to finally live a normal and happy life, all thanks to the knee surgery I had at Sancheti Hospital.
Kishore Bhosle
Frequently Asked Questions
Can high arches in children correct themselves naturally?
Mild, flexible cases may improve with growth and physical therapy, but rigid or severe cases typically require medical intervention for optimal outcomes.
Is pes cavus always linked to neurological diseases?
No, many cases are idiopathic without underlying neurological issues, though neurological causes should be evaluated during diagnosis.
What types of shoes are best for children with high arches?
Supportive shoes with good arch support, adequate cushioning, and a wide toe box help accommodate the foot shape and reduce pressure points.
When is surgery necessary for pes cavus?
Surgery is considered when conservative treatments fail, pain is severe, deformity is rigid, or there is significant functional impairment affecting daily activities.
Can pes cavus cause long-term problems?
If untreated, the condition can lead to chronic pain, instability, and joint problems, potentially affecting mobility and quality of life throughout adulthood.
