Subtle Cavus Foot Surgery

Overview
In the absence of pain it is possible to overlook the architecture of this foot type that may eventually lead to more severe conditions. One of the reasons that pes cavus garners less attention is the lack of a standard definition. It is generally recognized as a foot with an abnormally high arch, but mild forms can be asymptomatic and fall within the normal band of function. A cavus foot can be readily identified from a pedigraph imprint: There will be no ink under the medial arch and obvious weight bearing along portions of the lateral border. Pressure maps sometimes demonstrate the classic ?tripod? characteristic of cavus feet showing a concentration of term weight loss bearing at the first and fifth metatarsal heads and at the heel. This clear imprint of high-pressure spots can also serve as a basis for orthotic treatment.

Causes
The exact cause of pes cavus is unknown. However, the medical community has settled on three likely scenarios that lead to pes cavus. Neuromuscular Condition. A neuromuscular condition may affect nerves and muscles that cause the hollowing of the foot. There are a number of neuromuscular conditions that could be the culprit, the most likely of which is Charcot-Marie Tooth disease. Congenital. Congenital causes may be derived from familial history of residual club foot as well as cases where the condition happens spontaneously. Trauma. As common sense would dictate, severe foot trauma could cause pes cavus through fractures, burns etc.

Symptoms
Symptoms of a cavus foot type are higher arch than normal while standing. Sometimes the heel is seen to be angled inward as well as the toes appearing to be drawn inward. People with a cavus foot type also sometimes develop clawtoes as the toes will be curled up like claws. Frequent ankle sprains may also occur as the foot has a tendancy to roll over on the outside of the ankle with a higher arch. Conditions such as plantarflexed metatarsals, Haglund's deformity, and equinus may co-exist. A person with a cavus foot type typically is unable to stand as long as a normal foot structure as it does not have a good shock absorption mechanism. Some problems may be unnoticed until the person takes up heavier levels of activity, like running. In other extreme cases the deformity may not be well suited to the shoes your wearing and cause an ulcer. This is a strong reason to consult a podiatrist.

Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You will also be asked about your family medical history. Your foot will be examined closely. Your doctor may move it around to assess range of motion. You may be referred to a specialist. An orthopedist specializes in bones. Podiatrists specialize in feet. The condition may be caused by a nervous system condition. In this case your doctor may refer you to a neurologist. Images may need to be taken of your foot. This can be done with x-rays.

Non Surgical Treatment
Depending on the severity and presence of debilitation, non-surgical and surgical treatment options are extensively reviewed by your Weil foot and ankle physician. Non-surgical treatment options we provide include, but are not limited to: shoe gear modifications, bracing and/or strappings, custom-molded arch supports; all of which assist in positioning the foot properly and provide improved shock absorption.

Surgical Treatment
The surgeon will listen to your problems, examine you carefully and analyse the exact nature of your deformity and the problems it causes. Surgery for cavus foot is often quite major, especially if the deformity is severe or very stiff.