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High Heeled Shoes Are Bad for Your Feet

More women are choosing to forego the wearing of high heeled shoes as sales of the constricting and uncomfortable footwear continue a fast decline in favor of flats and other comfort wear. The trend is being fueled by high profile celebrities like Oprah Winfrey who have decided they don’t want to sacrifice their health in pursuit of dubious high fashion. While some women continue to wear heels at work or for special occasions, the major shift in the workplace is to more comfortable shoes and clothing.

Forcing your feet into high heels on a regular basis exacerbates a long list of foot and ankle problems, including:

  • Plantar fasciitis—An inflammation of the band of tissue that runs across the foot bottom
  • Ankle injuries—Ankle pain and increased stiffness due to decreased mobility
  • Foot deformities and skin conditions—Corns, calluses, bunions, and hammertoes are more likely to occur in frequent wearers of high heels.
  • Neuromas—Morton’s neuroma is caused by the increased pressure on the ball of the foot
  • Achilles tendon issues—Shortening and stiffening of the Achilles tendon, which often can cause difficulties when you try wearing flats again

High heels also have the effect of putting the knees in a permanently bent position, causing excess stress to the knee joints and interrupting the natural movement of the foot, which has a concomitant effect on walking mechanics. Additionally, the spine can become misaligned increasing the compression forces on vertebrae in the lower back. The resultant need to overuse the back muscles also adds to this layering of pain and discomfort. Medical professionals also believe that women who often wear high heels are more likely to develop osteoarthritis as they get older.

If you are experiencing foot problems caused by the wearing of high heels, your foot doctor can help. The podiatrists at Foot Health Podiatry, PLLC, in New York City, NY, are experts in providing the best care for any problems you may be experiencing with your feet and ankles. Sorelis Jimenez, DPM, John W. Fletcher, DPM, and Kamilla Danilova, DPM and the rest of the staff at Foot Health Podiatry, PLLC, are happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have. Check out our Ask The Doctor page for answers to frequently asked questions, and never hesitate to give us a call to talk or make an appointment at 212-845-9991.

 

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