High heels are extremely damaging as they alter your body’s posture, lead to back pain, change your natural gait, and can cause several other complications if worn for long periods of time. Other consequences include ankle instability, unstable biomechanics in the feet, and uneven pressure being exerted on the feet and the ball of each foot as we walk or run. The narrowness of high heels can also lead to bunions forming as our toes are pressed together unnaturally. It’s recommended to wear high heels in moderation or to avoid them altogether.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet visit one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your injury and provide you with quality treatment.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Millburn, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
