How High Heels Can Wreak Havoc on Your Foot Health

While high heels have been a fashion staple for decades, wearing them may come at a significant cost to your foot health and wellness. Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists wants you to be aware of foot woes that can arise from wearing heels and explains below how they can affect your well-being.

Impact on Posture and Alignment

  • Wearing high heels alters the natural alignment of your body, shifting your center of gravity forward and placing excessive pressure on the balls of your feet and toes.
  • This can lead to potential long-term issues such as bunions, hammertoes, and stress fractures.

Increased Risk of Foot Problems

  • High heels force the feet into a pointed position, compressing the toes and limiting circulation – potentially causing or exacerbating nerve damage and conditions like Morton’s neuroma and plantar fasciitis.
  • The lack of support and cushioning in high heels can also contribute to arch pain and Achilles tendonitis.

Long-Term Structural Changes

  • Regularly wearing high heels can result in long-term structural changes to the feet and ankles.
  • The calf muscles and Achilles tendon can shorten and tighten, making it uncomfortable to wear flat shoes or walk barefoot.

Practical Tips for Minimizing Damage

  1. Select lower heels (ideally less than 2 inches) that have a wider base for better stability.
  2. Cushioned inserts can provide some relief by absorbing shock and reducing pressure on the balls of your feet.
  3. Regularly stretch your calf muscles and perform foot exercises to maintain flexibility and strength.

Take care of your feet—they carry you through life! Consider the impact of high heels on your foot health and make choices that support both style and comfort. Understanding the risks associated with high heels and adopting healthier footwear choices can help you prioritize your foot health and overall well-being.

A podiatrist is your best bet for getting all the need-to-know advice about foot wellness. The expert team at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists is the place to go for any questions or concerns you have. With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M. are dedicated to all aspects of foot health. Give us a call at (520) 575-0800 or contact us online!

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