You’ve heard the phrase, “beauty is pain,” but living by that philosophy might be harming your body more than you think. This is especially true when it comes to high heels. These stylish shoes are popular for special occasions and work wear, but they could be detrimental to your foot care. The following guide will break down the basics of high heels and how you can protect your feet.

A Guide to High Heels And Foot Health

How Can High Heels Affect Your Feet?

In general, wearing high heels affects the alignment of the spine and puts pressure on the knees. You will also experience pressure on the balls of the feet. This can cause increased discomfort or even a stress fracture. Pressure on the heels gradually wears away at the foot’s natural cushioning, making walking more uncomfortable.

Wearing heels can also make you more susceptible to a sprain or strain, which can lead to tendonitis. Other complications include heel spurs and arthritis. Fortunately, with the right foot care and awareness of these effects, you can take steps to protect your foot health.

How Can You Minimize the Impact of High Heels?

One of the best ways to protect your feet is to limit how often you wear high heels. Trade them for more supportive shoes as much as possible, especially if you plan to stand or walk for long periods. When you do wear heels, try to choose a shoe with a thicker heel or wedge to distribute your weight more evenly. Then, stretch your feet and legs at the end of the day to help mitigate the impact of your heels. 

As for proper foot care, be sure to make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can give you more ideas for protecting your feet from the effects of high heels. The doctor will also be able to spot any foot conditions or early signs of complications. They can make recommendations for shoe inserts and treatment to keep your feet healthy. 

If you wear high heels often, Louise E. Tortora, DPM can help you prioritize foot care. Located in Fairfield, CT, Dr. Tortora diagnoses and treats a variety of foot health issues. Her services include diabetic foot care, callus and corn treatment, bunion treatment, sports injury therapy, and clubfoot treatment for patients of all ages. From your first appointment, she and her staff will listen to your concerns and educate you on foot wellness. To view a full list of her services, visit her office online. You can also call (203) 254-0093 to make an appointment.