Thanks to their ability to make women’s legs look longer, leaner and more toned, high-heeled shoes rarely fall out of fashion. The allure of high heels is so strong that many women continue to wear them despite the fact they can cause discomfort and pain.
High heels first became popular in Europe during the late 16th century, worn by both men and women as symbols of wealth and sophistication. Highly impractical high-heeled shoes were a sign you belonged to the social elite, not the working classes. Today, high heels are regarded as the ultimate form of feminine footwear. Whether for a glamorous event or a business meeting, high heels are a staple in many women’s wardrobes, especially in fashion-conscious areas like London. Unfortunately, this means that women’s feet are under more pressure than ever before.
High Heels Force Your Feet into an Unnatural Position
High-heeled shoes raise the heel above the level of the toes, accentuating the calf muscles. This unnatural position can compromise foot health, particularly if heels are worn frequently or for long periods. Standing or walking in high heels forces the toes and the balls of the feet to bear more weight than normal. The angled shape strains the foot muscles and fails to support the ankles, squeezing the toes together and applying pressure to both the front and back of the feet.
Fashionable Shoes Often Lead to Foot Problems
High heels can cause a variety of foot problems due to the stress they place on the feet. These problems include:
- Blisters
- Bunions
- Calluses and corns
- Deformities such as hammertoes
- Ingrown toenails
- Muscle fatigue
- Pain in the balls of the feet and heels
- Unsteady gait
The Royal College of Podiatry (a professional body of which our foot specialists are members) has called on employers in the retail sector to stop forcing women to wear impractical shoes at work due to these health concerns.
When Choosing Shoes, How High is Too High?
The higher the heels, the higher the risk of developing foot problems. You can avoid these issues by opting for flatter shoes. If high heels are a must, reduce the risk by selecting heels that are no more than two inches high. Remember, while high heels may be fashionable, it’s vital that your feet don’t suffer in pursuit of style.
Expert Foot Care and Treatment for High-Heel Wearers
If you suspect that high heels are causing or aggravating your foot problems, booking a foot check-up with a podiatrist is an excellent idea.
At our London podiatry clinics, we offer expert care and treatment for foot complaints associated with impractical or ill-fitting footwear. Our services range from addressing minor issues like excess hard skin to treating more troubling ones such as infected sores.
Additionally, we can advise you on choosing the best footwear for your needs and prescribe ustom-made orthotics, to make your shoes more comfortable and supportive.
High heels may enhance your appearance, but they can also harm your feet. Understanding the impact of high heels on foot health and taking preventive measures can help you enjoy the benefits of stylish footwear without enduring the pain. For professional foot care and advice, schedule a check-up with a podiatrist.
Reduce the pain of your footwear with a foot check-up from Feet By Pody. Simply call us on 0207 099 6657 or book your appointment online today.