The kind of shoes a person wears has a direct effect on the comfort and ease with which they navigate the world. While certain footwear may be fashionable or convenient, that doesn't mean they provide the necessary support. Without support, one can suffer callouses, heel and arch pain, and lower back and postural problems. Below, learn more about three types of shoes to avoid.

The Worst Shoes for Your Feet

1. High Heels

High heels, specifically stilettos, force the feet into an unnatural vertical position. They compress the Achilles tendon that attaches the calf to the heel; over time, they can shorten it to the point that it can no longer comfortably reach the bottom of the foot, which will make wearing any type of flat shoe painful.

The constricted design of high heels exerts added pressure not just on the ball of the foot but also on the legs and back. This compression frequently causes callouses and heel and arch pain, and the elevated placement of the foot makes falls and sprains more likely.

2. Flip-Flops

Flip-flops may be quick and easy to slip on and off, but their convenience is no trade-off for the possible damage they can do. Flip-flops have no support whatsoever, which can lead to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and bone spurs.

Also, the toes have to work overtime to grip flip-flops and hold them in place, so there is an increased risk of developing hammertoes. Flip-flops contain minimal protection and expose the feet to heavy or sharp objects that can easily cause injury.

3. Pointed-Toe Shoes

Many high heels and loafers have pointed toes, which squeeze the ends of the foot into unhealthy positions and restrict the alignment of the entire foot. Toes need some wiggle room—typically the width of a thumb between the top of the longest toe and the tip of the shoe. Pointy toes can result in corns; callouses; heel and arch pain; bruised toes; broken, loose, or ingrown nails; and permanent hammertoes.

If you frequently wear any of these shoes and have developed foot issues, visit a podiatrist. Dr. Eric D. Trattner has more than 30 years of experience serving patients throughout Cleveland, OH, and the surrounding areas. He offers comprehensive treatments for a variety of foot problems, including heel and arch pain, hammertoes, ankle sprains, and much more. Schedule an appointment by calling (440) 333-5350, and visit the website to explore his services.