Children grow quickly, and their feet are no exception, with subtle structural changes becoming more noticeable as their bones, muscles, and tendons develop. At first glance, a slight upward curve to their foot may seem harmless, but excessively high arches can cause imbalance, discomfort, and long-term complications if not properly managed.
When high arches cause pain or affect the way your child walks, an experienced foot pain doctor in Austin can help determine the underlying cause and recommend corrective measures to prevent it from interfering with healthy development.
What Are High Arches?
High arches, also known as pes cavus, occur when the arch of the foot is raised more than normal, even when the child is standing. While every foot has some degree of curvature, a high arch means the midsection of the foot bears very little—or none—of the body’s weight.
The arch of the foot plays a vital role in shock absorption. It acts as a natural spring, distributing pressure evenly with each step. When the arch is too high, that spring function is compromised. Most of the body’s weight shifts to the heel and ball of the foot, which can cause pain, instability, and abnormal wear on the joints over time.
In children, high arches may be hereditary or related to neuromuscular conditions that affect muscle control and strength. In some cases, both feet are affected equally; in others, only one foot develops an abnormally high arch. Understanding the cause is key to finding the right treatment and preventing future problems.
Recognizing the Signs of High Arches in Children
If the middle of your child’s foot barely touches the floor, it can be easy to spot high arches. What many parents don’t know is that their child may show other, more subtle signs of a high arch long before the curve of their foot is visible.
Common indicators include:
- Foot pain or fatigue. Children may complain of aching or throbbing in the heel, arch, or ball of the foot after walking, running, or standing.
- Instability and frequent ankle sprains. Because high arches shift weight to the outer edges of the feet, maintaining balance can be more challenging, especially during sports or play.
- Calluses or pressure spots. Hard, thickened skin often forms under the ball or heel due to uneven pressure.
- Abnormal shoe wear. Shoes may wear down faster on the outer edges, reflecting an uneven walking pattern.
- Toes that curl or claw. The toes may bend or grip the ground for extra stability, leading to hammertoes or claw toes over time.
You may also notice that your child walks with a slightly awkward gait, trips more often than other children, or prefers softer, more cushioned shoes. These may be signs that the arches are affecting how their feet function.
Why High Arches Can Cause Pain
The mechanics of a high-arched foot alter how the body moves and absorbs impact. Because the arch doesn’t flatten enough when walking, each step produces more force on the heel and ball of the foot. That increased pressure can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Plantar fasciitis. The connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes strained, causing heel and arch pain.
- Metatarsalgia. The front of the foot becomes sore or inflamed from excess pressure on the metatarsal bones.
- Ankle instability. A rigid, high arch often rolls outward (supination), increasing the risk of sprains and falls.
- Knee, hip, or back pain. Misalignment in the foot can change body mechanics, forcing other joints to compensate.
Because children are still growing, these biomechanical stresses can affect not just comfort but physical development. Untreated high arches can lead to posture changes and muscle imbalances that persist into adulthood.
What Causes High Arches in Children?
High arches can arise from a variety of causes. Some are simple and inherited, while others signal an underlying medical condition that requires attention.
Possible causes include:
- Genetic factors. Many cases of high arches run in families. These are usually symmetrical and not associated with neurological symptoms.
- Neuromuscular conditions. Disorders that affect the nerves controlling foot and leg muscles, like Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, spina bifida, or cerebral palsy, can lead to progressive changes in arch shape.
- Injury or trauma. Nerve damage in the legs or feet can alter muscle balance, resulting in arch elevation.
- Structural differences. Bone shape, tight tendons, or an imbalance between flexor and extensor muscles may also contribute.
If your child’s arches appear suddenly, seem to worsen rapidly, or are accompanied by weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking, schedule an evaluation as soon as possible to determine if there is an underlying neurological condition.
When to See a Foot Pain Doctor in Austin
Some children with mild high arches experience no symptoms at all. But if they experience persistent discomfort or functional problems, seek care from an experienced podiatrist. A foot pain doctor in Austin should evaluate your child if they:
- Complain of pain, cramping, or fatigue in their feet or legs
- Frequently trip, twist their ankles, or avoid certain activities
- Develop thick calluses or areas of redness under the ball or heel
- Have visible deformities such as curled toes or rigid arches
- Experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the feet
A podiatrist can perform a physical exam, gait analysis, and—if needed—imaging or nerve testing to pinpoint the cause. Identifying the problem early helps prevent long-term damage to growing bones and joints.
Treatment Options for High Arches in Children
Your child’s treatment will depend on the cause and severity of their high arches, and many benefit from conservative options.
Common treatment strategies include:
- Custom orthotics. Prescription shoe inserts are designed to support the arch and redistribute weight evenly across the foot.
- Supportive footwear. Shoes with firm heel counters, cushioned soles, and wide toe boxes reduce pressure and improve stability.
- Stretching and strengthening. Physical therapy can improve flexibility, strengthen weak muscles, and correct balance problems.
- Night splints or braces. Splints or braces gently stretch tight tendons and stabilize the ankle, preventing deformity progression.
- Pain relief and inflammation management. Your doctor may recommend ice therapy or anti-inflammatory medication for acute discomfort.
For children whose high arches result from neurological or structural abnormalities, treatment may involve long-term orthotic management, bracing, or, in rare cases, surgery. Surgical intervention is typically reserved for severe, rigid deformities that cause pain or interfere with mobility.
Expertise and Commitment to Care
At Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists, Dr. Craig H. Thomajan and his team are proud to serve their Austin, Texas, neighbors with a commitment to excellence in podiatric medicine. They believe that healthy feet lead to a happier life, and they’ve built their practice around patient education and individualized care.
Dr. Thomajan is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in both Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rearfoot/Ankle Surgery, and by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. He is also a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons.
Education is central to the team’s philosophy—not only for their patients but for their ongoing professional growth. They stay informed about the latest advances in podiatric technology, surgical techniques, and evidence-based care, ensuring that every patient receives modern, effective treatment tailored to their specific needs. Families in Austin can trust that their child’s feet are in capable, caring hands.
The Long-Term Outlook for Children With High Arches
Most children with high arches grow into active, healthy adults, especially when doctors and parents recognize the condition early and manage it appropriately. Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and physical therapy can significantly improve comfort and stability. With proper attention, high arches rarely limit a child’s participation in sports or daily activities.
However, ignoring the problem can lead to lifelong challenges. Untreated high arches may contribute to chronic pain, arthritis, or persistent gait abnormalities later in life. Regular monitoring throughout growth ensures that the child’s feet remain flexible, balanced, and pain-free.
Every child’s feet are different, and high arches are just one of many variations in development. What matters most is maintaining function, comfort, and confidence as your child grows. Understanding the signs, seeking timely evaluation, and embracing supportive care can make all the difference in helping your child navigate every stage of life comfortably.
