The effects of high heels

Most high heel wearing women who come into my clinic with some sort of foot problem often sheepishly admit that they wear their heels “too often” and then they try to reason with me why they do it.  Usually the first point they raise is that they work in a professional environment and flats won’t look good.  Then I am told flats don’t suit skirts, dresses and suits.  Some other reasons I am often given are: heels are “power” shoes, their calves and arches have begun to hurt in flat shoes, I’m short – I need some height!

All good points!  Yes I understand them, I appreciate the honesty.  Rather than preaching the “DON’T” aspect of it all, I rather work with women and find ways that we can minimise the damage by minimising the time in the shoes.

Just for your reference, I have listed below a great visual reference of the damage that can occur:

Thanks to:

http://apps.washingtonpost.com/g/page/national/high-heels-can-be-a-pain-in-the-feet/237/

Now what are some practical tips?

1.  Only wear heels when you need to – at important meetings, lunches – have a more comfortable pair of shoes under your desk for the day to day things.

2.  Wear more comfortable shoes to and from work – no one really cares outside your work environment what shoes you are wearing!

3.  Make sure your shoes are wide enough for the ball of your foot!

4.  Consider high heel orthotics – YES they do make a big difference! (http://www.medicalpedicure.com.au/high-heel-orthotics/)

5.  Look for heels with reasonable platforms and reasonable wedged heels.

6.  If they hurt when you put them on in the shop – don’t buy them! It’s only going to get worse!

Hope this helps 🙂