September 2024

Wearing high heels can lead to several negative side effects affecting the feet. The elevated position of the heel places excessive pressure on the toes and the balls of the feet, often causing pain and discomfort. This pressure can result in conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and calluses. Additionally, the unnatural foot position associated with high heels disrupts proper foot alignment, leading to potential issues with balance and gait. Over time, wearing high heels can contribute to joint and muscle strain, leading to chronic pain in the feet, knees, and lower back. To minimize these effects, it is important to balance high-heel wear with comfortable, supportive footwear and practice foot care routines that alleviate pressure and promote foot health. If you have developed a foot condition from frequently wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief strategies.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, often caused by a misalignment of the toe joint. This condition leads to the big toe angling toward the other toes, creating an uncomfortable and noticeable protrusion. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing certain shoes. Bunions can result from genetic factors, excessive foot stress, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. Treatment for bunions focuses on managing pain and slowing progression. Initially, this involves wearing properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box and using orthotic inserts to reduce pressure. Taking anti-inflammatory medications can help with discomfort. In more severe cases, where conservative measures fail, surgical options may be considered to realign the toe and correct the deformity. If you're experiencing symptoms of a bunion or need advice on managing foot discomfort, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide expert care and tailor treatment to your specific needs.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foothill Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grass Valley, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.