What is a high arch?
A high arch is a congenital or acquired deformity of the foot and is the opposite of a flat foot: The arch of the foot is very pronounced, for example, due to a congenital weakness of the small foot muscles.
Depending on where the main load lies in the deformed foot, a distinction is made between the common bunion high arch and the rarer heel high arch.
How is a high arch treated?
In order to treat the high arch properly, the cause must be known. The doctor then chooses the most appropriate treatment method.
In the case of a very pronounced hollow foot, the doctor may consider surgery. In this case, for example, parts of the bones of the adult foot are removed or cut off (osteotomy). In so-called arthrodesis, the surgeon surgically stiffens joints into a more functionally favorable position.
What are the causes?
In people who regularly wear shoes with high heels, the ligaments and tendons shorten over time, which ultimately allows the formation of a hollow foot. A neurological disease that causes muscle atrophy in the small muscles of the foot is also a possible trigger for the foot deformity. Hollow feet also run in families. They often develop during growth and subsequently become entrenched due to the wrong footwear.
How do you recognize a hollow foot?
The foot malposition is easy to recognize. The longitudinal arch of the foot is very high and pronounced. The toes often assume a claw or grasping position. The heel and forefoot bear the entire body weight, while the midfoot has almost no contact with the ground.
Is prevention possible?
A congenital hollow foot cannot be prevented, but an acquired one can. In general, it is advisable to avoid shoes that are too small and heels that are too high. Meanwhile, there are more and more shoe brands that pay attention to a healthy fit of their shoes. Walking barefoot on soft, natural surfaces also promotes a healthy foot structure and helps prevent hollow feet.
