What should you know about super high arch feet?

A high arch, also called pes cavus, leaves less of the midfoot in contact with the ground. The heel and forefoot may therefore carry more load, while the foot can feel less adaptable on uneven surfaces. Some people have high arches without symptoms; others develop calluses, ankle instability, tight calf muscles, toe clawing or repeated discomfort.

Arch Pain can be one presentation, and altered loading may contribute to Plantar Fasciitis. A clinician will consider whether the shape is long-standing, has changed recently, affects one or both feet and is accompanied by weakness, numbness or balance changes.

Choose shoes with enough width, cushioning and a stable heel, and avoid footwear that creates pressure over the instep or toes. Increase walking or exercise gradually. A podiatry or orthopaedic assessment can check alignment and pressure distribution; Custom Orthotics may redistribute load for selected foot shapes. Physiotherapy may address calf flexibility, ankle control, balance and strengthening.

Book an assessment for persistent pain, recurrent ankle sprains, worsening calluses, difficulty fitting shoes or a noticeable change in arch height. Seek prompt care for new weakness, numbness, frequent falls or a rapidly changing one-sided foot shape, because these findings need more than footwear advice. Urgent review is warranted after an injury with severe pain, deformity or inability to bear weight.

Is my arch shape causing the pressure pattern? Should my shoes or activity change? Would an orthotic help? Which exercises are safe? Do weakness, numbness or balance symptoms require further evaluation?