High/Low Arch
HIGH ARCHES (PES CAVUS)
WHAT IS A HIGH ARCH?
A high arch, known medically as Pes Cavus, is a foot type where the arch of the foot is significantly raised. When the foot is placed on the ground, the arch does not flatten or collapse, leaving most of the weight concentrated on the heel and the ball of the foot (forefoot).
Unlike flat feet, high-arched feet are generally rigid and poor at shock absorption, which can lead to stress and pain higher up the kinetic chain, such as in the knees or back.
COMMON CAUSES AND RISKS
While some high arches are hereditary, many can be linked to neurological disorders or muscle imbalances, which require professional diagnosis.
Risks Associated with High Arches:
- Poor Shock Absorption: The rigidity of the foot means impact forces travel directly to the bones and joints.
- Instability: The narrow base of the foot can lead to frequent ankle sprains.
- Conditions: Metatarsalgia (forefoot pain), Sesamoiditis, hammer toes, and painful calluses under the ball of the foot.
TREATMENT AT FOOTCARE ORTHOTICS
The primary goal of treatment is to improve shock absorption and evenly distribute the pressure across the entire sole of the foot.
- Custom Orthotics: We design custom orthotics with deep heel cups and high arch fill to provide full contact beneath the arch. This ensures the midfoot shares the load, taking destructive pressure off the heel and forefoot.
- Cushioning: We focus on using materials that provide maximum cushioning and shock absorption.
- Footwear Advice: Recommendations for supportive shoes that accommodate a high instep and provide excellent stability.
LOW ARCHES/FLAT FEET (PES PLANUS)
WHAT ARE FLAT FEET?
Flat feet, or Pes Planus, are characterized by a collapsed or absent arch. When a person with flat feet stands, the entire sole of the foot touches the ground. While some people are born with this structure (flexible flat feet), others can develop it over time due to injury, aging, or ligament damage (Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity).
The main issue with flat feet is over-pronation, where the arch rolls inward excessively, leading to mechanical stress on the ankle, Achilles tendon, and even the knees.
COMMON CAUSES AND RISKS
Flat feet fundamentally change the alignment of the entire leg, which can lead to chronic pain and instability.
Risks Associated with Flat Feet:
- Alignment Issues: Over-pronation causes the shin bone to rotate inward, stressing the knee joint.
- Plantar Fasciitis: The stretched fascia leads to heel pain and inflammation.
- Tendonitis: Pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon or the Posterior Tibial Tendon (which holds up the arch).
- Bunions and Hammer Toes: The unstable forefoot mechanics can contribute to toe deformities.
TREATMENT AT FOOTCARE ORTHOTICS
Effective management of flat feet focuses on supporting the arch and controlling the excessive inward rolling (pronation) to restore proper lower limb alignment.
- Custom Orthotics: Our custom-designed orthotics are essential for flat feet. They stabilize the foot and ankle by precisely controlling the motion of the heel and arch. This correction helps reduce stress on the knees and back.
- Biomechanical Assessment: We conduct a thorough gait analysis to determine the exact degree of over-pronation, ensuring the orthotic correction is perfectly calibrated to your specific needs.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises for the muscles that support the arch to improve natural stability over time.