Tips to Keep High Heels from Harming the Feet

Tips to Keep High Heels from Harming the Feet

cracked.pngAccording to an analysis by popular shopping site Gilt, shoppers residing in the Sunshine State of Florida wear the highest heels in the nation; followed by Nevada and Arkansas. While the heels-loving women of these states may all agree that wearing high heels makes their feet attractive, there are a few tips they can follow to help keep their feet healthy while still looking good. Women who are interested in maintaining height in their heels should choose a style with a gradual incline that isn’t too steep. To avoid burning pain between the toes, wear shoes with a wider toe box to give your toes some space. Shoes with cushioning in the soles will help absorb the impact of your foot striking the ground, preventing some of the shock from reaching your knees. Stretches such as heel raises and toe stretches can help prevent pain in the foot.

While high heels are very fashionable, they can detrimentally affect the feet. To learn more, consult with Dr. Michael H. Wynn, DPM of Foot Care Associates of Texas. Dr. Wynn will provide you with the foot and ankle information you seek.

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. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Kingwood, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about the Effects of High Heels


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