Cavus

Cavus is a Latin adjective meaning hollow or concave. In medical terminology, the term is used to describe hollow or concave structures and, by extension, certain deformities. The most common reference is pes cavus, or cavus foot, a condition in which the foot has an excessively high arch.

Pes cavus can be flexible or rigid and may affect one or both feet. It often leads to an overly supinated gait, uneven pressure under the sole, and the development of forefoot and heel pain, calluses, and toe deformities such as claw toes. The appearance and symptoms can vary with the underlying cause and the degree of deformity.

Causes are diverse and include congenital factors, neuromuscular disorders such as Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease and cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, trauma, or it may be idiopathic. Because pes cavus can be a marker of an underlying condition, evaluation often includes a broader clinical assessment to identify associated problems.

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on inspection and gait analysis, with imaging such as X-rays used to assess arch height, hindfoot alignment, and specific bone angles. Additional tests may be indicated to investigate suspected neuromuscular or systemic conditions.

Treatment is individualized to the cause and severity. Nonoperative approaches include custom orthotics, shoe modifications, ankle–foot orthoses, and physical therapy to stretch tight muscles and strengthen others. Surgical options, considered for rigid or painful deformities unresponsive to conservative care, may involve tendon lengthening or transfers, osteotomies to correct bone alignment, or joint fusion.

Prognosis depends on the underlying etiology and the degree of deformity. The primary goals are symptom relief, improved foot alignment, and restoration of functional walking.