Clawfoot (Pes Cavus)

Some people’s feet have unusually high arches. It is the opposite of flat feet. This condition can be called clawfoot, pes cavus, or talipes cavus. Clawfoot is much less common than flat feet. A foot with an abnormally high arch often causes the ankle to have an outward tilt. The length of the foot tends to be shortened.

The high arched foot may cause clawed toes. Clawed toes are bent and cannot be straightened. Clawed toes can be painful. If the foot is raised off the ground, the forefoot of a high arched foot lies lower than the heel. The cause of high arched feet may be hereditary or caused by a neurological or neuromuscular problem.

People with high arches do not usually experience pain or other problems associated with this condition. The high arches and clawed toes can make finding well-fitting shoes problematic. Some people with high arches find it necessary to buy orthopedic or custom-made shoes.

Clawfoot may cause corns and calluses on the clawed toes. Pain in the arch due to additional pressure is a possible symptom especially while walking, standing, or running. Feet with high arches tend to be less flexible than normal feet. It can cause the calf muscle to be tighter than usual.

Clawfoot is a potentially disabling condition. The high arched foot may be treated with orthotics that provide support to the arch and alleviate some of the pressure. The doctor may prescribe steroids or anti-inflammatory medications. Padding or taping may be used to help control symptoms.

Pain due to the compression of the metatarsals can be persistent. If this condition is painful, surgical intervention may be recommended by a physician. High arched feet are prone to developing plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Clawfoot makes the person more susceptible to developing arthritis and bone fractures.