There are a lot of health risks that come along with wearing high heels. High heels point the toes downward, which loads feet with the full weight of the bodies. As a result, foot, leg, and back muscles are forced out of alignment, and this causes damage to other parts of the body. They can also cause stress fractures due to the excessive pressure being put on the ball of the foot. Heel pain is another issue commonly experienced by women who wear high heels. It is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of heels before deciding to wear them.
High heels can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Alan Discont, D.P.M. of Family Foot and Ankle Care. Dr. Discont will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
