If the arch of your foot sits noticeably higher than normal, you may be living with a condition called high arches — clinically known as pes cavus. While some people experience no symptoms at all, others deal with chronic pain, instability, and difficulty finding shoes that fit properly. The good news? With the right evaluation and personalized care plan, high arches can be effectively managed so you can stay active and comfortable.
At Momentum Foot and Ankle, high arches are treated by Dr. Christopher Zimmer, DPM — a board-eligible, fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon with advanced training in lower extremity deformity correction, reconstruction, and complex foot pathology.
Dr. Zimmer completed a dedicated Trauma & Reconstruction Fellowship at Westside Regional Medical Center in Plantation, FL, and his residency at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, where he treated over 300 pediatric foot and ankle patients. His published research and national presentations reflect a commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care. At Momentum, every patient receives honest guidance, a thorough diagnosis, and a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
What Are High Arches?
High arches occur when the arch of the foot is raised more than normal, placing excessive pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. Unlike flat feet, pes cavus causes weight to be unevenly distributed, which can affect gait, balance, and long-term joint health.
High arches may be structural (present from birth) or develop as a result of an underlying neurological condition, making a thorough evaluation essential.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can vary in severity from mild discomfort to significant functional limitations. Patients often report:
- Pain in the heel, ball of the foot, or arch
- Difficulty standing for long periods
- Frequent ankle sprains or instability
- Calluses or pressure sores on the ball, heel, or side of the foot
- Clawed or hammered toes
- Shoes that wear unevenly or feel uncomfortable
- Foot fatigue or weakness
What Causes High Arches?
High arches can stem from a variety of causes. Common contributing factors include:
- Hereditary or structural foot shape
- Neurological conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease or cerebral palsy
- Spinal cord abnormalities
- Prior foot injuries or trauma
- Muscle imbalances in the lower extremity
Because neurological causes are possible, Dr. Zimmer conducts a comprehensive evaluation to identify the root cause before recommending any treatment.
Diagnosing High Arches
Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination, gait analysis, and a review of your symptoms and medical history. Imaging such as X-rays may be used to assess foot structure, joint alignment, and the degree of arch elevation. If a neurological cause is suspected, appropriate referrals or further testing will be coordinated.
Treatment Options
Most patients with high arches respond well to conservative care. Treatment is always tailored to the severity of your condition and your lifestyle goals.
Conservative treatments may include:
- Custom orthotic devices to redistribute pressure and improve alignment
- Supportive footwear recommendations
- Physical therapy to strengthen stabilizing muscles
- Bracing or ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) for instability
- Padding and offloading for calluses or pressure points
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain management
Surgical options are considered when conservative measures no longer provide relief. Procedures may include tendon transfers, osteotomies, or joint fusions to realign the foot and restore function. Dr. Zimmer will walk you through every option before any surgical decision is made.
Why Choose Momentum Foot and Ankle?
At Momentum, you’ll work directly with a fellowship-trained surgeon — not a rotating staff member. Dr. Zimmer takes the time to listen, educate, and build a treatment plan you feel confident in. Whether your high arches require simple orthotics or advanced reconstruction, you’ll receive honest recommendations and continuity of care from diagnosis through recovery.
- Fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeon
- Conservative-first approach — surgery only when truly necessary
- Personalized, one-on-one care
- Serving patients of all ages throughout Palm Beach County
- Accepts most major insurance plans
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Don’t let high arches limit your daily life. If you’re experiencing foot pain, instability, or related symptoms, contact us today at (561) 369-4455 to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Zimmer. Relief starts with the right diagnosis — and the right team.
