Have you noticed a growing bump on the top of your feet or increasing stiffness making shoe-wearing painful? These signs could indicate the presence of cavus feet.
Initially, this type of foot arch may not cause discomfort, but it can affect other joints, especially if your toes start curling.
This article explains the various pains caused by cavus feet and their appropriate treatments.
Cavus feet: knee pain
Your feet and knees work together to balance your body, so an imbalance caused by cavus feet affects your knees. The reduced shock absorption of cavus feet forces your knees to compensate, increasing pressure and accelerating cartilage wear, leading to pain and arthritis.
Cavus feet: heel pain
Cavus feet often provide insufficient support, making your toes and heel bear excessive weight and absorb shocks improperly.
This can cause:
- Bursitis or panniculitis in the heel;
- Cracks and skin lesions;
- An accumulation of calluses.
Cavus feet: ankle pain
Our ankles coordinate foot and leg movement. Cavus feet disturb balance, forcing ankles to work harder, which can cause pain, especially with activities like walking or gardening.
You can reduce discomfort by:
- Wearing shoes matched to your foot type;
- Using heel-padded shoes or orthopedic insoles;
- Warming up before activities.
If ankles deviate from their natural alignment, consult a podiatrist for tailored solutions.
Cavus feet: valgus
The cavus foot valgus describes a heel that is strongly inclined during walking.
This condition places constant pressure on the heel, causing pain.
Symptoms include:
- Axial changes in legs;
- Calf cramps;
- Bursitis in the heel;
- Achilles tendinitis;
- Plantar fasciitis;
- Bunion (hallux valgus);
- Metatarsalgia.
Early intervention is essential to avoid complications; booking a podiatry visit helps prevent discomfort.
Consequences of cavus feet in adults and treatments
Cavus feet, whether congenital or acquired, can cause serious issues if untreated.
Besides foot pain, consequences include:
- Chronic back pain;
- Posture changes;
- Hammertoe deformities;
- Frequent sprains;
- Increased muscle stiffness.
Podiatrists can provide treatments such as:
- Manual foot therapy;
- Prescription of foot orthoses.
Treatment is generally noninvasive; foot surgery is a last resort.
PiedRéseau offers solutions adapted to all feet
Whether your feet are cavus, flat, or normal, any pain disrupting daily life should be addressed.
PiedRéseau’s podiatry clinics across Quebec provide specialized, fast care. If your cavus feet bother you, consult a podiatrist today!