High heels change more than a person's height. They shift body weight toward the front of the foot, increasing pressure beneath the toes and the ball of the foot. This position also changes the way the feet move while walking and requires adjustments in posture. Although high heels may offer a preferred appearance and a boost in confidence, these benefits do not protect against foot problems. The height and shape of the heel matter, along with how well the shoe fits and how long it is worn.
A narrow toe box squeezes the toes together, aggravating bunions and contributing to bent toes called hammertoes. Repeated friction also encourages corns and calluses, which are areas of thickened skin. Pressure beneath the forefoot sometimes irritates nerves, causing burning or numbness that spreads into the toes. A high-heeled shoe keeps the calf muscles and Achilles tendon in a shortened position. Frequent use may contribute to tightness that makes flatter shoes uncomfortable. Thin or spiked heels provide a smaller base of support. This increases ankle instability, the risk of injury, and a loss of balance. As a result, the chance of falling, spraining an ankle, or breaking a bone increases.
A podiatrist evaluates painful areas and checks foot alignment, joint movement, and walking patterns. This assessment helps determine whether symptoms come from pressure or an underlying condition aggravated by the shoes. Treatment includes recommendations for shoe fit and podiatric care for painful corns or calluses. The podiatrist may prescribe cushioning or custom shoe inserts made specifically for high heels. Recommendations for a wider toe box, a lower heel, and a thicker heel address pressure and stability. Persistent pain sometimes requires digital imaging to identify bone or joint problems and guide further treatment. If you have foot pain after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips.
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 PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, Bath, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
