Summary about Disease
Pes Cavus, also known as high arch, is a foot deformity characterized by an abnormally high arch on the sole of the foot. This can lead to an excessive amount of weight being placed on the heel and ball of the foot when standing or walking, causing pain, instability, and various other foot and ankle problems.
Symptoms
High arch that is visible even when standing
Hammertoes (bent toes) or claw toes (toes curled under)
Calluses on the ball of the foot, heel, or outer edge of the foot
Foot pain, especially when standing or walking
Ankle instability or frequent ankle sprains
Difficulty finding shoes that fit properly
Foot drop (difficulty lifting the front of the foot) in some cases, indicating a neurological cause
Causes
Pes Cavus can be caused by various factors, including:
Neuromuscular conditions: Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), spinal cord tumors, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, polio.
Idiopathic: In some cases, the cause is unknown (idiopathic).
Trauma: Foot or ankle injuries.
Other conditions: Stroke, compartment syndrome.
Medicine Used
There is no medicine to cure pes cavus. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving function. Depending on the cause and severity, treatment options may include:
Orthotics: Custom-made arch supports to redistribute pressure and provide support.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription medications to manage pain.
Physical therapy: Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and balance.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.
Is Communicable
No, pes cavus is not communicable. It is a structural deformity, not an infectious disease.
Precautions
Wear supportive shoes with good arch support.
Use custom orthotics as prescribed by a podiatrist or orthopedist.
Avoid activities that aggravate pain.
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the feet.
See a healthcare professional if you experience foot pain or instability.
If a neuromuscular condition is present, manage the underlying condition according to medical advice.
How long does an outbreak last?
Pes Cavus is not an outbreak. It's a structural condition. Symptoms can be constant or intermittent, depending on the cause and the activities performed. Symptoms can persist lifelong if left unmanaged.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Physical examination: A doctor will examine the foot, looking for a high arch, hammertoes, calluses, and other signs.
Medical history: The doctor will ask about symptoms, family history, and any underlying medical conditions.
Gait analysis: Observing the patient's walking pattern.
X-rays: To evaluate the bone structure of the foot.
Neurological examination: If a neurological cause is suspected, a neurological exam may be performed.
Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG): Can help identify nerve damage or muscle disorders.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms can vary depending on the cause.
Neuromuscular conditions: Symptoms may develop gradually over time, often starting in childhood or adolescence.
Trauma: Symptoms may appear suddenly after an injury.
Idiopathic: The onset may be gradual and the exact time of onset may be difficult to pinpoint. The timeline can vary widely from person to person.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications.
If a neurological condition is suspected, it is important to consult with a neurologist.
Treatment should be individualized based on the cause and severity of the condition.
Long-term management is often necessary to control symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Regular follow-up with a podiatrist or orthopedist is important.