High Heels a source of Foot Pressure

Recent studies have showed that a number of health problems can stem from the feet being subjected to great amounts of pressure for long periods of time. High heels are one of the many sources of such pressure, and a recent BuzzFeed video has reported that even a 1-inch heel can put “22 perecent more pressure on the ball of the foot than flat shoes”. A 3-inch heel inflicts a 76 percent increase in pressure. High heels can be the source of conditions such as calluses, bunions, ingrown toenails, and Achilles tendon strains, plantar fasciitis, and ankle sprains.

High heels can create a myriad of foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Glen A. Beede of Fort Worth. Dr. Beede will treat 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 contact our office located in Fort Worth, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about the effects of high heels.