Information for Patients

A cavus foot deformity has an abnormally high longitudinal arch. There are two main types of cavus deformity: cavovarus foot, which is characterized by plantar flexion of the forefoot and hindfoot varus, and calcaneocavus foot, which has dorsiflexion of the calcaneus. Most cavus foot deformities are the result of muscle imbalances with an underlying neurologic cause. Moderate-to-severe or progressive deformities usually require surgical treatment with three main goals: 1) correction of the existing deformity; 2) preservation of foot mobility; and 3) rebalancing the deforming muscle forces. Every cavus foot is unique; therefore, a through examination and development of an individualized surgical plan are required.