A study conducted in Victoria, Australia indicated that the incidence of injuries related to wearing high heels occur most often during the summer. Melbourne podiatrist Cylie Williams found Sunday mornings to be especially common with these injuries, being the busiest time for Victorian emergency departments to see these cases.
The most frequent injuries are high-heel wearers between the ages of 20-24, with data showing Victorian hospitals treated 236 women and 4 men for these types of injuries. Dr. Williams suggests grassy areas and cobblestone laneways are prime hazards for those who wear these types of shoes, and suggests going no higher than seven centimeters in terms of heel size. According to the Australasian Podiatry Council, high heels should be worn in moderation, with lower and solid heels over stilettos.
You can learn more about how harmful high heels can be from podiatrist Dr. Jack Gorman of Bux-Mont Foot & Ankle Care Centers. Dr. Gorman can tell you about the different conditions high heels can cause, and will help you determine if you are wearing your own pair excessively.
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.
For more information about the Effects of High Heels on the Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, contact our office located in Warminster, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.