High Heels can be detrimental for Foot Health

corns2(1).jpgWhile high heels are often a popular choice for footwear among women, many foot experts agree that heels can be detrimental to foot health due to various reasons. While wearing heels can make the legs appear longer, a 2012 study has discovered that the shorter strides of heel wearers can cause the leg and feet muscles to tighten or shorten, eventually creating stiffness and weakness. Wearing high heels can also cause pain in areas aside from the legs and feet, such as the lower back and knees. Frequent heel use can also reduce the body’s sense of balance.

High heels can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Andrew H. Cohen, D.P.M. of Mid-Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Cohen will attend to all of 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 Saginaw and Essexville, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about the effects of high heels.

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