How High Heels Can Harm Your Feet
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we always keep our patient's best interests in mind, and while some truths may be difficult to hear, it’s important to understand how to keep your feet happy and healthy! When it comes to high heels, while they look great, they’re more damaging to your feet than you may realize. Below are three facts that make high heels less than ideal.
High-Heeled Shoes Can Cause
Heel Pain:
When wearing high heels, uneven weight distribution on the foot inflames the plantar fascia and causes heel pain.
The stiff backs of high heels can cause friction against the back of the heels, which causes a condition called Haglund’s Deformity. The friction irritates the bony structure at the back of the heel, which enlarges it and makes it more painful to wear shoes.
Ball of Foot Pain:
Wearing shoes with heels over two inches high puts a lot of weight and strain on the forefoot, which can lead to either the formation of a callus or a neuroma.
Calluses form to protect areas deep in the foot that are being damaged.
A neuroma is a nerve bundle that thickens as a result of inflammation.
Both of these conditions lead to a burning feeling or the sensation that you have a rock in your shoe.
Toe Pressure:
High heels are usually styled with narrow, pointy-toe boxes. Prolonged wearing of heels puts excessive pressure on your toes.
Pushing up against the front of the shoe may cause one or more of your toes to bend downward and develop into a hammertoe.
Another condition that can result from toes being squeezed together is an ingrown toenail. As toes stay pressed against each other, it is easy for a nail to be forced downward and grow into the skin surrounding the nail bed.
While high heels look great, your best bet is to focus on stylish and supportive shoes. Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance if you want more advice on the best choices for you and your feet! Set up an appointment today or give us a call at (212) 877 1002 so Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina T. Ruff at Goldsmith Podiatry can give you advice!