When it comes to fashion, many people would assume that footwear such as high heels, sandals and espadrilles would always remain in style. In the past, sneakers had always been associated with sports performance; a realm beyond fashion. Trends appear to be changing, however, as sneakers are becoming more and more prevalent with the revival of casual comfort in fashion footwear. Jaime Barr, footwear and accessories editor at trend forecasting firm WGSN, shared, “Now that people are used to having comfort features worked into their shoes it’s going to be really hard to go back.”

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Kevin Lapoff of Lake Worth Podiatry. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Lake Worth, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about the effects of high heels.