Those who wear high heels are aware of the pain they cause. However, the minor pain you endure while wearing heels can lead to more serious foot ailments over time. It has been found that wearing high heels may cause extra pressure to be placed on your joints. Heels cause the natural alignment of your feet to be thrown out of balance, since they are forced into an angled position. When you wear high heels, your body weight is channeled to the ball of your foot and the tip of your heel. Consequently, extra pressure is placed on your joints which may lead to them feeling stiff and painful. Walking around in high heels also causes you to overarch your back. This may be harmful to your spine if it is done for an extended period of time. If you still choose to wear heels, you should limit the amount of days you wear them per week. If you suspect that you have foot pain as a result of wearing heels, you should consult with your podiatrist right away.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of 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.  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 feel free to contact our offices located in Fair Lawn, Riverdale, and Englewood, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.