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High Arches Treatment in Glen Iris

Expert podiatry for high arches and pes cavus — in-clinic and in-home across Glen Iris.

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Suffering From High Arches in Glen Iris?

Pes Cavus, commonly referred to as high arches, is a foot deformity characterized by an abnormally elevated plantar longitudinal arch. Unlike flat feet, where the arch collapses, individuals with Pes Cavus have a foot arch that is significantly higher than average. This structural difference means that the foot bears weight primarily on the heel and the ball of the foot, leading to an uneven distribution of pressure. This altered biomechanics often results in a supinated (under-pronated) foot, where the foot rolls outwards during walking, reducing its natural shock-absorbing capabilities and adaptability to various surfaces. While some individuals may have high arches without experiencing any issues, for many, it can lead to pain, instability, and a range of secondary problems that can worsen over time if left unaddressed.

div analysing patients balance

Common Symptoms & Causes Of High Arches

  • Foot Pain: Particularly in the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia) and the heel, due to increased pressure on these areas [1].
  • Ankle Pain and Swelling: The instability often associated with high arches can lead to strain and discomfort in the ankle joint [1].
  • Arch Pain: Direct pain within the abnormally high arch itself.
  • Corns and Calluses: These often develop on the areas of the foot that bear excessive pressure, such as the outer edge of the foot, the ball of the foot, and the toes [1].
  • Ankle Joint Instability and Sprains: The supinated foot posture can make the ankle more prone to rolling outwards, leading to frequent ankle sprains [1].
  • Claw Toes or Hammertoes: The toes may curl downwards due to muscle imbalances and altered foot mechanics [1].
  • Chronic Pain from Repetitive Strain Injuries: Conditions like plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the ligament supporting the arch) and peroneal tendonitis (inflammation of tendons on the outer ankle) are common [1].
  • Secondary Pains: Due to the kinetic chain effect, high arches can contribute to pain in other areas, including the knees and lower back, and can even accelerate the development of foot and ankle arthritis [1].

Our High Arches Treatment Approach

Every patient is different. We start with a thorough assessment to understand exactly what’s causing your pain — then build a personalised treatment plan around your goals, lifestyle, and timeline.

  • Comprehensive Biomechanical Assessment: Detailed gait analysis and foot pressure mapping to assess the impact of high arches.
  • Custom Orthotic Prescription: Bespoke orthotics with lateral forefoot posting to distribute pressure evenly.
  • Foot & Ankle Strengthening: Progressive intrinsic foot and ankle strengthening to improve shock absorption.
  • Footwear Assessment: Expert footwear advice to provide appropriate cushioning and support.
  • Stretching Program: Targeted calf and plantar fascia stretching to reduce secondary tightness.
  • Injury Management: Treatment of secondary conditions such as plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and ankle sprains.

In-Clinic & In-Home Available

We treat patients both at our Glen Iris clinic and in the comfort of your own home — ideal for patients who find it difficult to travel.

NDIS Participants Welcome — We work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. Contact us to discuss your funding options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

High arches are often hereditary, meaning they run in families. They can also be associated with neurological conditions like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, or result from muscle imbalances and biomechanical factors that lead to an exaggerated arch.
For most individuals, conservative treatments are highly effective in managing symptoms and improving function without the need for surgery. These include custom orthotics, targeted physiotherapy, and specific exercises to address muscle imbalances and improve foot mechanics.
Common symptoms include foot pain, particularly in the ball and heel of the foot, calluses, hammertoes, and ankle instability. Individuals may also experience difficulty finding comfortable shoes and an increased risk of ankle sprains.
Custom orthotics provide crucial support to the arch, redistributing pressure evenly across the foot and reducing excessive load on specific areas. This helps alleviate pain, improve stability, and correct biomechanical inefficiencies, which is a key one-percenter in long-term management.
Exercises focus on improving flexibility in tight muscles (like the calf muscles), strengthening weak intrinsic foot muscles, and enhancing proprioception and balance. These exercises are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and biomechanics.
It’s advisable to seek professional help if you experience persistent foot pain, difficulty with daily activities, recurrent ankle sprains, or if your high arches are causing discomfort with footwear. Early intervention can prevent progression and improve long-term outcomes.

Ready to Get Started?

Book an appointment for high arches treatment at our Glen Iris clinic today.

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Or call us: (03) 9999 7271