What is "pes cavus"?

Pes cavus refers to a foot condition characterized by an excessively high arch. This condition can affect the way a person walks and can lead to various issues, including discomfort or pain in the feet and legs. Individuals with pes cavus often experience a rigid foot structure, which does not absorb shock well, leading to further complications, such as pain in the feet, knees, and lower back due to changes in gait mechanics.

The high arch creates an imbalance in the distribution of weight across the foot, which can increase the risk of injuries. This condition may be congenital (present at birth) or can develop over time due to certain neurological or muscular disorders. Understanding pes cavus is crucial in sports medicine as it can significantly impact an athlete's performance and injury risk.

Other conditions, such as flat foot, are characterized by a low arch, and physiological foot conditions encompass a range of normal variations that do not typically lead to pain or dysfunction. The term for injury recovery does not relate to the structural attributes of the foot, making it irrelevant in the context of this question.