The expression “beauty is pain” can cause women to dismiss footwear-induced discomfort. But just because you enjoy a certain shoe style doesn’t mean you must be resigned to poor foot health. From custom shoe inserts to slight design modifications, there are many ways women can make smart footwear choices. This guide explains which shoes are most likely to cause chronic pain and how to modify them for increased comfort.

Ballet Flats

The extreme opposite of high heels, flats have their own issues. The lack of arch support can affect the whole body. Plantar fasciitis, a condition where the tissue along the base of the foot becomes inflamed, is a common result. Individuals with plantar fasciitis experience stabbing pain when they walk after a long period of sitting or sleeping. If the condition isn’t addressed, it will worsen over time. 

Add support to flat shoes with orthotics. These custom shoe inserts reduce heel and arch discomfort and even reduce lower-back pain for some patients. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to scan your feet and create an insole that provides the correct level of support. 

High Heels

These shoes put extra pressure on the ball of the foot, causing bones and nerves in the area to swell. Wearing them frequently can tighten ankle tendons and make natural movements feel uncomfortable. The continuous pressure on the back of the heel creates calluses and permanently changes foot shape. Finally, the lack of stability in high heels puts their wearers at greater risk for ankle injuries.

To avoid pain, choose heels that are two inches tall or shorter, as they allow feet to move more naturally. Avoid stilettos in favor of wide heels to distribute weight evenly and reduce the chance of twisted ankles. Performance pumps provide stylish designs with the added support of an athletic shoe.

Narrow-Toed Shoes

The constant pressure from pointy-toed shoes can lead to bunions, bruises, and more. Because there isn’t enough room for toes to spread out, tissue and bones get displaced. If they’re worn too frequently, a condition called hammertoe can develop. Without medical intervention, affected toes can remain permanently curled.

When trying on shoes, pay close attention to how much room they leave for the toes. Opt for styles with a wider toe box that doesn’t pinch the front half of the foot to a point. Choose pairs made from flexible materials that don’t constrict movement.

If you're dealing with foot pain and need help finding custom shoe inserts, contact Deer Creek Foot Care in O’Fallon, MO. Podiatrist Dr. Warren Trampe has over 20 years of experience diagnosing and treating foot issues. He accepts patients of all ages and provides solutions for everything from callouses to fractures. Call (636) 240-1127 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their custom orthotics online.