Cavus foot – causes, symptoms, treatment

A cavus foot, also known as a supinated foot, is a problem related to the abnormal structure of the foot, which can lead to various ailments. In this article, we will discuss what cavus foot is, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, exercises, prevention, and recommended articles on the topic.

Hollow foot – foot structure

To understand what a hollow foot is, it is worth knowing the structure of the foot. The foot consists of three arches: longitudinal, transverse and extended. A cavus foot is characterized by an excessive increase in the longitudinal arch of the foot, which causes the foot to rest on the heel, head and toes.

What is a hollow foot?

A cavus foot is an incorrect positioning of the foot, which causes the longitudinal arch to be significantly elevated. This is a condition in which the foot is lifted up and the body weight is concentrated on the front of the foot. This is the opposite of a flat foot, where the arch is lowered.

Cavus foot – causes

The causes of cavus foot can be various. One of the main factors is genetic predisposition, but other factors also play an important role. The most common causes include:

• Underdevelopment of foot muscles in childhood
• Abnormal foot biomechanics
• Rheumatic diseases
• Chronic foot injuries
• Excessive supination (excessively twisted foot)

Hollow foot – symptoms

Symptoms of cavus foot can be varied and affect daily functioning. The most common symptoms include:

• Pain around the foot
• Balance problems
• Excessively strained calf muscles
• Foot tissue necrosis
• Difficulty fitting shoes

Cavus foot – diagnosis and treatment

The diagnosis of cavus foot is usually made by an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist. After a thorough clinical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be ordered to assess the extent of the deformity.

Treatment of cavus foot depends on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, conservative therapy is used, which includes:

• Wearing appropriate orthopedic insoles
• Performing exercises to strengthen the foot muscles
• Physiotherapy

In advanced cases or when conservative therapy is not effective, surgical treatment of cavus foot may be necessary.

Cavus foot – rehabilitation and exercises

Rehabilitation of a cavus foot is an important element of the treatment process. A rehabilitation specialist will help the patient select appropriate exercises that will help strengthen the foot muscles and improve its functions.

Examples of exercises are:

• Balance exercises
• Exercises to strengthen the foot muscles
• Exercises to stretch the calf muscles

Cavus foot – prevention

To prevent the occurrence of cavus foot or alleviate its symptoms, it is worth remembering a few rules:

• Wearing appropriate footwear that supports the arch of the foot
• Regularly performing foot strengthening exercises
• Body weight control
• Regular check-ups with an orthopedic specialist

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of hollow foot, we recommend that you read the following articles:

• “Orthopedic insoles – how do they work and when are they needed?”
• “Exercises to strengthen foot muscles – effective prevention”
• “Surgical treatment of foot deformities – when is it necessary?”

It is worth learning more about this topic to effectively deal with the problem of cavus foot and avoid complications.

Ultimately, cavus foot can be a source of pain and discomfort, but proper treatment and attention to foot health can provide relief and improve your quality of life.

Your suggestions: If you have any questions about cavus foot or would like to know more details about it, please consult a specialist.