Victoria Beckham says that she won’t be wearing heels anymore when she’s working, and she’s not the only one. Sarah Jessica Parker, from “Sex and the City,” resorted to wearing flats in 2013. According to podiatrist Andrew Gladstone, wearing high heels for long periods of time can result in various problems for the feet. Corns, damaged toenails, bunions, calluses, and pain in the back, knees, and hips can all be caused by continued high heel wear. Avoid wearing heels that are 3 ½ inches or higher to avoid straining your joints, and always give your feet a break.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Edwin S. Hart 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 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 Bethelehem, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.