There is no doubt that high heels can be damaging to your posture if worn for too long. Some common risks include foot pain and injury, added pressure on your back and feet and increased risks of osteoarthritis, inflammation, bunions and hammertoes, and your ability to stand and walk. Preventing these effects of high heels involve finding alternative shoes to wear that are comfortable and healthy for your feet. Wearing high heels for too long can result in permanent damage to your overall body health.

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. For more information, consult with Dr. Jordan Rachlin of Monroe Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still 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. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.

If you have any questions, please contact our offices located in Monroe and Hartsdale, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about the effects of high heels.