Pes cavus

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this in passing but I tend to have a pretty high arch. I've never really thought much of it, I've just noticed it in certain styles of shoes, mainly those with straps across the top middle part of my foot. It can also be problematic in shoes where you have to slip your foot through an attached strap, like the pink satin JCrew ankle strap heels I wore today.

This also was an issue when I bought the Nicole Brundage sandals. They both are beautiful shoes but I find them a hard fit. Not in the length, because that is rarely an issue, but just getting them on.



At first I actually thought it was me, and in a way, I guess it is. But obviously there isn't much I can do about it. But it is kind of frustrating after a while because I really really love mary janes and these strappy styles.

When I was writing about what I wore today I started wondering if this was an actual "condition". Granted, I don't think I have a major affliction or anything as I am not seriously impeded and I wear heels all the time and I don't have to wear any kind of orthotic. The major problem I have is metatarsal compression - the straps press into the top of my foot.

As the complete opposite of flat feet, folks with diagnosed pes cavus can end up having other problems as well.

Some things to know:

High foot arches are much less common than flat feet. However, they are more likely to be associated with an orthopedic or neurological conditions. Neuromuscular diseases that cause changes in muscle tone may lead to the development of high arches.

Unlike flat feet, highly arched feet tend to be painful because more stress is placed on the section of the foot between the ankle and the toes (metatarsals). This condition generally makes it difficult to fit shoes. In addition, those with high arches usually need foot support. A high arch may cause significant disability. (aack!)

Symptoms:

- Shortened length of foot (would size 5 be an symptom?)
- Difficulty fitting shoes
- Foot pain associated with walking, standing, and running

Now I actually used to run a lot. I hurt myself and stopped and haven't gone back to it yet. However one of my 2008 goals was to get back to running so I can run in a 10K by October and possibly a half marathon my next January. This is ambitious I know but I actually had peaked at that point when I was running in the past. I'm starting by ramping up slowly and plan in incorporating a lot of yoga as that helped me in past.

I don't have a significant issue now but I also don't want to develop one in the future - if only because I would be very very sad if I couldn't wear heels anymore. I mean, that's a heck of an investment to not be able to utilize anymore.

Has anyone else experienced this challenge? Do you just avoid those styles or did you come up with other strategies as a work around. I've bought bigger sizes (as I did with the JCrew pair), or I had to have new straps sent for the Nicole Brundage pair, and I've even cut the elastic holding straps and then re-sewn them on.

I did find that New Balance sneakers were the best for running (as recommended at a dedicated running store), so that's something to keep in mind.

Also, if you're having any problems or pain, make sure to speak to your doctor. Problems can be diagnosed through exams and test:

X-rays of the feet
X-ray of the spine
MRI of the spine
Electromyography
Nerve conduction studies

Treatments may include:

Corrective shoes may help to relieve pain and can improve walking. This includes orthopedic modifications to the shoes, such as an arch insert and a support insole. Surgery to flatten the foot is sometimes necessary in severe cases. Any underlying neurological problems, if present, must be treated by appropriate specialists.

Safe and happy walking!

Store Focus: Spiegel

I get a lot of catalogs. And I mean A LOT. When Christmas time rolls around, it becomes truly disgusting the amount of stuff that comes in the mail. Most of the time, however, I love catalogs and online ordering. With my crazy schedule, and my low patience for crowds, I prefer not to schlep around to the stores.

One catalog that I have always looked at but never really purchased from is Spiegel. They are a pretty comprehensive book with clothes, shoes, purses, accessories and even some home goods. I think part of the reason I've never really considered them is because I have this perception in my mind that they are full of clothes that are too Garanimal matchy-matchy, too crazily designed or too full of outfits like this:



Ugh! Or just as bad, something like this:



How wide are those friggin' pants? Anyway, even though those are actual pieces from Spiegel and they are hideous, I believe that, if you search and are selective, any store can yield a few gems that can enhance your wardrobe. A few of the pieces that rose to the top were this chiffon color-block dress. I love the colors and the style, but I think I would have done this in a less wrinkly fabric.



I do love a red suit and this has a great shape, especially the neckline and seaming of this jacket. It's sexy and professional.



I also really like this leather croc-embossed skirt. Really versatile with a great shape. I think it look much more expensive than it is. Good find there.



One thing I did notice as I was going though the book was a very strange trend in the shoe styles. Now overall the shoes in the catalog were not good. And to me, there were a great number that looked like orthotic shoes.

I have several friends who, for various reasons, have to wear orthotic shoes and/or inserts. And I know that it must be a major challenge to find shoes that are stylish but can also accommodate their needs. So, I'm sure these are some great options. However, I don't think this is what Spiegel intended and that is what has me confused. Take a look at these and tell me what you think.


Cheetah print wedge - $55


Slip-on wedge skimmer - $49


Wedge ankle boot - $59

I can't even recommend them for this purpose because they don't position them as good for orthotics, but if you get them and find they help you expand your shoe wardrobe and you like the styles, let me know.

There are some other options that do bring a more affordable price tag to some classic and even designer styles. I like the metallic (hopefully not plastic) look of these brogues that would be right at home with the menswear styles I featured earlier.


Platform Oxford - $59

I also think these chunky Mary Janes would get a lot of wear paired up with jeans and skirts.


Mary Jane pump - $49

So, overall I'd give Spiegel a 50%. There are some shudder-inducing clothes but there are some fun options too. And the prices aren't too bad. Worth checking out and picking a few key items. I think if I do place an order, I'm going to grab this hoodie here. It's my favorite thing out of the whole book - Sequin hoodie $59.




Happy Shopping!