Julie Lopez was attending her daughter’s wedding when she decided to kick off her high heel shoes and attend the reception barefoot, an occurrence many women who have suffered high heel pain are surely familiar with. The experience caused Lopez, who has a background in orthopedic nursing, to take matters into her own hands and design her own shoes. Her company, Julie Lopez Shoes, produces high heels that are much more comfortable for women. “We widen the forefoot of the shoe just a little bit,” she explains, which allows for the toes to spread out and keep them from uncomfortable positions.
High heel have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Yeon Shim of Roselle Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts 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. Also, 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Roselle, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
