Many people wear high-heels to the office, special events, and even when they’re out and about. While stylish, these shoes could result in a trip to the foot doctor. It’s important to understand the risks of wearing heels and the ways you can protect your feet. Here is a helpful guide.

Common Problems From Wearing High Heels

Your weight is distributed between the heels and the balls of your feet anytime you’re standing or moving. High heels drive your body’s weight onto the balls of your feet. It’s common to experience foot pain after standing in this unnatural stance for long periods. High-heels wearers often experience foot swelling and blisters around their toes, and the constant stress can result in chronic pain.

Wearing heels also stresses muscles and ligaments because it pulls them from their natural positions. It’s easy to hyperextend those in the ankle, which is why sprained ankles are a common injury. Tight heels also compress the toes, and the pressure may force toenails downward into the skin or cause unsightly calluses to form.

How to Prevent Foot Problems

Your foot doctor will most likely recommend wearing high heels no longer than 4 hours. The higher the heel, the less time you should wear them. For example, heels 3.5 inches or taller should be worn for only an hour to limit the amount of stress on your joints, muscles, and ligaments. You can further reduce pain by ensuring shoes aren’t too tight and that they’re well-cushioned.

Consider keeping a pair of sneakers in your car for walking from the parking lot to the office, and remove heels if you’ll be working at your desk for a while. You can loosen tense muscles by massaging them or stretching your feet. If you notice the pain is becoming a recurring problem, speak with a foot doctor.

The team at Choice Podiatry Associates knows how uncomfortable foot injuries can be and provides comprehensive foot care services. With locations in Kenwood, Wyoming, and Monfort Heights South, OH, a foot doctor will ensure you have all the health resources you need to overcome injuries and discomfort. Discover all their foot care services, including children’s foot care, on their website, or call our Bridgetown Office at (513) 574-2424 or our Kenwood Office at (513) 984-1911 to schedule an exam.