For women who work regularly in business settings, they may find themselves wearing high heels for prolonged periods of time. However, it’s important to know that long-term wearing of high heels can not only be painful for your feet, but this can also lead to deformities developing over time, such as corns, calluses, bunions, and ingrown toenails. The higher the heel, the more the foot will slide forward, forcing a small toe box, and increasing pressure on the ball of the foot. High heels shift the structure of our bodies, putting strain on our spine and leading to back pain. High heels also lack shock absorption and cause your ankles to put in more work to support your weight. They can also put excessive strain on your calves. To help prevent these problems, try to either find an alternative to high heels or limit your usage.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Imaze Marian Davis, DPM from Marian Davis, DPM, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of 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. 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 Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
