High Arches (Pes Cavus) Treatment in London
High arches can place excessive pressure on specific areas of the foot, often leading to pain, instability or recurrent injury. If you experience discomfort in the heel or forefoot, or feel your feet lack shock absorption, your foot structure may be a contributing factor.
At The Orthotists in London, we provide detailed biomechanical assessment and personalised orthotic treatment for individuals with high arches. Our consultant orthotists identify how your foot structure affects load distribution and design tailored solutions to improve comfort, balance and function.
With clinics across central London, we support both straightforward cases and more complex presentations with clear, clinically grounded care.
What Are High Arches?
High arches, clinically referred to as pes cavus, describe a foot structure where the medial arch is elevated more than average.
This can result in reduced contact between the foot and the ground, concentrating pressure through the heel and forefoot rather than distributing it evenly.
Pes cavus may be:
- Structural, present from childhood
- Associated with neurological conditions
- Linked to muscle imbalance or altered biomechanics
Understanding the underlying cause is important when planning treatment.
Symptoms Associated with High Arches
Not everyone with high arches experiences discomfort, but when symptoms develop they often relate to pressure concentration and reduced shock absorption.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain under the heel or ball of the foot
- Recurrent ankle sprains
- Foot fatigue during prolonged walking
- Callus formation in pressure areas
- Reduced stability on uneven surfaces
- Pain along the outer border of the foot
In some cases, symptoms may extend to the knees or lower back due to altered load transmission.
Why High Arches Can Cause Problems
A higher arch typically creates a more rigid foot structure. This can reduce the foot’s ability to absorb impact forces.
Contributing factors may include:
- Limited shock absorption during gait
- Reduced contact area with the ground
- Increased lateral loading
- Muscle imbalance affecting foot control
- Previous injury altering movement patterns
Our role is to assess how these factors interact in your individual case.
High Arch Assessment in London
At The Orthotists, assessment is tailored to understand both structure and function.
Your consultation may include:
- Detailed symptom and medical history
- Evaluation of foot shape and alignment
- Gait analysis to assess loading patterns
- Assessment of ankle mobility
- Muscle strength testing
- Footwear review
Where neurological causes are suspected, we work alongside relevant medical specialists to ensure appropriate referral and management.
Treatment Options for Pes Cavus
Management focuses on improving load distribution and reducing pressure points.
Custom Orthotic Insoles
Bespoke orthoses can increase contact area, improve cushioning and redistribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Design is highly individualised based on your biomechanics and activity level.
Shock Absorption Strategies
Materials and construction are selected to enhance comfort during impact.
Footwear Advice
Supportive footwear with adequate cushioning and stability can complement orthotic treatment.
Stability and Control Guidance
Where instability is present, we provide advice to improve confidence during walking and activity.
Our aim is to improve comfort while maintaining natural movement patterns.
What to Expect
High arches are often long-standing, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms effectively.
During your care pathway:
- We assess whether your foot structure is contributing to your symptoms.
- You receive a clear explanation of findings and treatment options.
- Orthotic devices, if indicated, are designed specifically for your needs.
- Fitting ensures pressure is redistributed without compromising comfort.
- Follow-up appointments allow refinement and monitoring of progress.
Many patients notice improved comfort and reduced fatigue once pressure is more evenly distributed.
Why Choose The Orthotists for High Arches in London?
- Consultant orthotists with extensive experience in complex foot mechanics
- Individualised orthotic design rather than off-the-shelf solutions
- Strong links with London-based medical professionals
- Experience managing both structural and neurological presentations
- Clinics in Marylebone, Fortius City, Westminster Bridge and The Sloane Hospital
We focus on practical outcomes that support your daily activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are high arches a problem?
Not always. Treatment is only required when symptoms or instability are present.
Can high arches cause foot pain?
Yes, increased pressure in certain areas can lead to discomfort.
Do orthotics help high arches?
Custom orthoses can improve pressure distribution and reduce symptoms.
Are high arches linked to ankle sprains?
A more rigid foot structure can increase instability in some individuals.
Can high arches be corrected permanently?
Foot structure is usually long-standing, so management focuses on symptom control.
Is pes cavus hereditary?
It can be, although it may also be linked to neurological conditions.
What shoes are best for high arches?
Footwear with good cushioning and support is generally recommended.
Can high arches affect running?
Reduced shock absorption may increase stress during high-impact activity.
Should I be concerned about neurological causes?
In some cases, further investigation is appropriate, particularly if symptoms are progressive.