Tuesday, May 26, 2009

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

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
-Seek 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 their podiatrist for advice.


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