High heels have been in fashion for hundreds of years, but most doctors and physical therapists caution against them. The issue is deeper than blisters or temporary foot pain. Heels change almost everything about your posture and gait, putting a strain on your body. Here's what you need to know to make the healthiest choices for you.

How Do High Heels Impact Your Body?

When you step into high heels, your ankles flex to keep you upright, and your weight shifts forward into your toes and the balls of your feet, which aren't meant to support your weight for very long. At the same time, your foot can't roll from heel to toe like usual when you take a step, so the impact of each step jolts your legs and back harder than usual.

These shoes force your knee and hip joints into unusual positions as you walk, increasing wear and tear and sometimes damaging the structures nearby. The result is foot, knee, hip, and back pain, along with changes in your foot structure, such as hammertoe.

How Can You Prevent These Problems?

The ideal solution is to skip wearing high heels, and instead wear supportive, flat-soled shoes with plenty of cushioning. If you're going to wear heels, try to cut down the amount of time you spend in them and the distance you walk.

Taller heels have a larger impact, so choose shorter ones when possible. When you're experiencing foot pain, take your heels off to give your feet a rest, and stretch and massage your feet and ankles. A warm foot bath can also help relax the muscles. Finally, try using orthotics, specially designed shoe inserts that help redistribute the forces affecting your foot.

If you're having foot pain or other problems, go to Snyder Physical Therapy & Sports Rehabilitation in Lincoln, NE, for treatment. For 30 years, they've served Lancaster County, offering treatment for injuries or simple wear and tear. They strive to build a trusting relationship with every patient. Call (402) 489-1999 for an appointment or learn about their orthotics and other services online.