Claw Foot (Pes Cavus)

Claw Foot (Pes Cavus)

What is a Claw Foot?

A claw foot is a genetic defect in the foot with a high arch. Claw feet are relatively inflexible. This will often be associated with very tight calf muscles at the back of the lower leg.

What problems can claw foot cause?

• Pain in the feet during running
• Painful toes that are bent and cannot be straightened
• You will not usually be any good at long distance running - however I know one runner with this problem who is!

What can the athlete do about claw foot:

• Do plenty of static stretching, especially of the calf muscles and the sole of the foot
• See a specialist who can fit orthotic devices
• Take steps to avoid injury such as correct shoe selection, strengthening and stretching exercises
• Advise on the correct running shoes

Neutral shoes have a midsole of constant density. A motion control shoe will have a harder inside midsole to help prevent the foot rolling in or pronating. If you have the wrong running shoes you will just make any problems worse. People with high arches are often supinators and should contact a shoe specialist for advice.