Cavus Foot (High Arches)
Cavus Foot (High Arches)
What Is Cavus Foot?
Cavus foot refers to a condition in which the arch of the foot is abnormally high. Unlike flatfoot, cavus foot places excessive weight on the ball and heel of the foot, often resulting in pain, instability, and progressive deformities. At SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors, with offices in Santa Monica and at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers, we specialize in diagnosing and managing high arch conditions to relieve pain and improve function.

Causes of Cavus Foot
- Hereditary structural foot types
- Neuromuscular disorders (e.g., Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, polio, stroke)
- Spinal cord abnormalities
- Residual post-traumatic deformity
In many cases, cavus foot has no clear cause, but it may be progressive over time.
Symptoms of Cavus Foot
- Pain in the heel or ball of the foot
- Frequent ankle sprains or instability
- Hammertoes or claw toes
- Calluses under the ball of the foot or heel
- Tightness in the calf muscles
- Difficulty fitting shoes comfortably
How We Diagnose Cavus Foot
- Clinical evaluation of arch structure and foot flexibility
- Weight-bearing X-rays to assess bone alignment
- Gait and balance analysis
- Neurological screening to identify underlying conditions
Cavus Foot Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Management
- Custom orthotics to redistribute pressure and improve foot alignment
- Supportive, cushioned footwear with added arch and heel control
- Ankle bracing for stability and to prevent sprains
- Stretching and strengthening exercises for muscle balance
Advanced Therapies
- Shockwave therapy to relieve heel and forefoot pain
- MLS laser therapy to reduce inflammation in overloaded areas
- Botox injections in select neuromuscular conditions to reduce muscle overactivity
Surgical Options (for severe, rigid deformities)
- Soft tissue releases for tight muscles or tendons
- Bone realignment (osteotomy) to correct structure
- Tendon transfers to restore foot balance and improve function
What to Expect from Treatment
Our goal is to improve comfort, stability, and function while preventing progressive deformities. Many patients with cavus foot respond well to conservative treatments. Surgery is reserved for more advanced or disabling cases and typically results in significant improvement in pain and mobility.
Why Choose SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors?
- Experts in complex foot deformities and gait mechanics
- Customized conservative and surgical treatment plans
- State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging and therapies
- Convenient locations: Santa Monica and Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers
Our Docters
Our Board Certified Podiatrists
Socal Foot and Ankle doctors are committed to delivering the most exceptional treatments.

Board Certified Foot & Ankle Specialist
Office Time
Location: Santa Monica
Mon – Thur: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Board Certified Foot & Ankle Specialist
Office Time
Location: Santa Monica
Mon – Thur: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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