High arches occur when the arch of your foot is raised more than normal. The arch is what runs from the toes to the heel underneath your foot, also referred to as a “pes cavus” by your foot doctor. If you have high arches, you are on the opposite end of the spectrum from individuals who have flat feet.
What Causes High Arches?
High arches are less common than fallen arches. Some experts feel that they are more likely to be caused by a nerve condition or bone condition. Unlike flat feet, however, high arches can be extremely painful because there is more stress being placed on the foot. High arches can also make it more difficult to fit into shoes, and you probably will need special shoes or orthopedic inserts for support.
You can tell if you have high arches by looking out for the symptoms, which include:
- Shortened foot length
- Foot pain while walking, standing, running; whether you have been seated for a long time or on your feet for a prolonged period of time
- Difficulty fitting into shoes
How Do You Treat High Arches?
Some people never need treatment for their high arches, especially if they are flexible and the feet are well-cared for. If your high arches are causing pain and discomfort, there are a few non-surgical treatments your foot doctor will likely try first, including:
- Orthopedic Devices – These are referred to as “custom orthotics” and can provide cushioning and stability for the underneath of your foot. Orthopedic shoes may be required as well to offer extra support and provide your feet with the tailor-made arch comfort you need.
- Shoe Modifications – You may need to change the type of shoe you wear. High-topped shoes, for example, offer more ankle support and shoes with a wider heel offer more stability for arches.
- Braces – A foot doctor may recommend a brace to keep your foot and ankle stable during physical activity. Braces can also help manage foot drops.
When non-surgical treatments do not work, you may need surgery to relieve pain, increase your stability and compensate for any foot weaknesses that may be present.
Meet with a Podiatrist – Visit Your Local Foot Clinic in Toronto
If you think that you have high arches, consult our podiatrist at Comfort Stride today. Our specialists can assess the level of arching and help address issues like pain, stability or even chronic ankle problems.
Comfort Stride offers excellent high arch foot care services. Call us at 647-989-7794 for a consultation or for more information on treatment options.