Presidential hopeful Carly Fiorina won CNN’s republican debate on two fronts: one for her actual answers and the second for the fact that she did so wearing 3 ½ inch heels for three hours. While most women are familiar with wearing heels in everyday situations, Fiorina’s feat was that she managed to remain poised and comfortable while fielding tough questions throughout the debate, proving that it is possible to remain both serious and stylish.
High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact one of our podiatrists of New York Foot and Ankle. 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.
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
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 Franklin Square and Bethpage, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
