Jun 19th
Wearing high heels is something many women love to do, but research shows that these shoes are quite bad for your feet. This is a letdown to many high heel wearers because they want to look nice, but they also want to keep their feet safe. This artilce is going to explore how you can still wear high heels and keep your feet healthy through various methods, including wearing orthopedic high heels.
1. Make Sure the Shoes Fit Well
One of the biggest mistakes women make when purchasing high heels is getting shoes that don’t fit well. We aren’t referring to lose fitting shoes, but to shoes that fit way too tight. Many women do this because they feel more secure and stable; a looser shoe may feel like you are about to walk out of them or fall. The reality is, no matter how tight the shoe is you are likely to fall if you do not have good coordination. If you get tight fitting shoes though, you will have many other problems such as calluses, aggravated bunions, and misshapen hammertoes. Find shoes that give your toes enough room (avoid pointed toe heels and shoes) and allow your foot to fit inside naturally.
2. Stay Away From Stilettos
Stilettos are a major factor in foot pain and issues when wearing high heels. Stilettos focus more weight on the ball of your foot and can cause significant pain if worn for too long. They can even cause long-term health problems regarding your ankles, knees, and hips. Wearing shoes with a wider heel will make sure that the weight is distrusted more evenly along the foot, and it will also give you better balance. While stilettos are the more fashionable choice, there are many foot health sacrifices you will have to make that will become major problems as you age. Wedges are just as fashionable now and many women consider them to be the practical high heel choice. When purchasing wedges, always make sure to follow the other suggestions listed in this post.
3. Pay Attention to How Much Your Foot Slopes
What “slope” refers to is the angle at which your foot is when wearing high heels. Many high heels make your feet slope down at an extreme angle, which causes pain and problems in your feet and ankles. This could even cause things such as tarsal tunnel syndrome or other, more severe health problems. Find shoes that let your foot slope down gradually to be easier on your ankles and to promote arch health. You will also notice that wearing shoes that gradually slope will diminish the amount of pain you felt when wearing shoes that slope drastically. Wedges are, yet again, a great example of the type of heel that can slope gradually.
4. Don’t Wear High Heels For A Long Time
With any heels, whether wedges, stilettos, or orthopedic it is important to take them off throughout the day and let your feet rest. If you wear high heels into your office job, consider taking ballet flats or other flat shoes to wear when sitting at your desk. This can also be helpful when driving, giving you more control over your feet and placing them on the gas and brake pedals. There are a number of professional and fashionable flats you can find that will promote excellent foot health.
5. Get Insoles or Cushions for Your Shoes
If you purchase regular heels instead of orthopedic ones, consider purchasing insoles to wear. These will provide the support regular shoes do not have and will cut down on significant foot pain. This can be a great way to treat several different foot conditions while still wearing professional looking heels to work or fashionable shoes when you go out.
The Orthotic Shop understands the desire to wear high heels while maintaining foot health. We have a great selection of different styles and brands for you to choose from, and we are willing to help you find the best orthopedic high heels for you!
