Feet come in various shapes and sizes, but a certain foot shape known as ‘Cavus’ or ‘Cavoid’ can create problems of its own. The arch is high, the heel often turns in and, in severe cases, there is hard skin (callus) under the forefoot along with deformities of the toes.
Feet come in various shapes and sizes, but a certain foot shape known as ‘Cavus’ or ‘Cavoid’ can create problems of its own. The arch is high, the heel often turns in and, in severe cases, there is hard skin (callus) under the forefoot along with deformities of the toes.
Most commonly this type of foot is merely inherited, but if severe or worsening rapidly, there may be an underlying cause, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or other neurological conditions.
Cavus feet are slightly less flexible than usual, and prone to problems such as recurrent ankle sprain, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis and stress fractures. In more severe deformities, ankle or foot arthritis may eventually develop.
The treatment of cavus feet is usually non-operative, unless a secondary problem develops. Typically, insoles are made by a podiatrist or orthotist to correct the abnormal mechanics of the foot. Nevertheless, when these measures fail, or when deformities are severe, reconstructive surgery can be performed.
Most commonly this type of foot is merely inherited, but if severe or worsening rapidly, there may be an underlying cause, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or other neurological conditions.
Cavus feet are slightly less flexible than usual, and prone to problems such as recurrent ankle sprain, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis and stress fractures. In more severe deformities, ankle or foot arthritis may eventually develop.
The treatment of cavus feet is usually non-operative, unless a secondary problem develops. Typically, insoles are made by a podiatrist or orthotist to correct the abnormal mechanics of the foot. Nevertheless, when these measures fail, or when deformities are severe, reconstructive surgery can be performed.