A company has recently come under fire for trying to sell an infant version of high heels. The company called Pee Wee Pumps refers to the shoes as baby girl’s first fashion statement. Unfortunately many mothers are completely horrified by the shoes calling them inappropriate and “utterly hideous.” According to Martin Haines, Biomechanics Coach and Chartered Physiotherapist states that poor footwear can have a negative impact on their adult foot health.

“A shoe is needed to adapt to the child’s foot and so needs to be flat and flexible,” Haines stated, marking the heel as inappropriate for a child’s foot growth.

High heels can cause a ton of foot problems, especially on young developing feet. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart III of Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat 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 Bethlehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about the effects of high heels.