High heels have been the go-to footwear choice of women for centuries. They make you look taller, your legs look longer, and add that touch of sophistication and elegance to your overall style.
However, as sexy as they may look, did you know that high heels are incredibly dangerous for your health? Yes, these fashionable shoes are responsible for a lot of problems that affect women of all ages. In this article, we are going to discuss the dangers of wearing high heels and how they can cause severe health issues if worn regularly.
The Risks of Wearing High Heels – Explained
The dangers of wearing high heels go beyond just twisted ankles and temporary pain. Here are some of the risks you need to be aware of:.
Increased Risk of Falls
The higher your heels are, the more off-balance you will be. This puts you at an increased risk of falling, especially if you are walking on an uneven or slippery surface.
Falling can cause severe injuries that can take weeks or months to heal and can even cause permanent damage.
Foot Pain and Discomfort
High heels can cause pain and discomfort in your feet. Wearing high heels forces your feet into an unnatural position, with your toes squished together. This can cause blisters, calluses, corns, and even nerve damage.
Over time, the unnatural position of your feet can also lead to plantar fasciitis, a painful condition where the tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed.
Increased Risk of Arthritis
Wearing high heels can increase your risk of developing arthritis. The added stress placed on your joints, especially your knees and hips, can cause arthritis to develop earlier in life.
Arthritis is a painful and debilitating condition that can limit your mobility and impact your quality of life.
Back Pain
Wearing high heels forces you to arch your back unnaturally, which can lead to back pain and even cause problems with your spine. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
Permanent Damage to Feet
Wearing high heels regularly can lead to permanent damage to your feet. High heels can cause your Achilles tendon to tighten, which can shorten the tendon over time.
When this happens, you may find that you can no longer wear flat shoes comfortably, and you may experience pain and discomfort when barefoot.
Decreased Balance and Stability
Wearing high heels can decrease your balance and stability. When you wear high heels, your body is forced into an unnatural position, which makes it harder to maintain your balance.
This can increase your risk of accidents and falls, especially if you are walking on an uneven surface.
Minimizing the Risks of Wearing High Heels
If you must wear high heels, there are some things you can do to minimize the risks. Here are some tips to follow:.
Choose Lower Heels
Choose lower heels as they are less harmful to your feet and body. High heels of 2 inches or less are less harmful than those that are taller. The American Podiatric Medical Association recommends a heel height of no more than 2 inches.
Limit the Time You Wear High Heels
Try to limit the time you wear high heels. If you wear heels for work, take them off as soon as you get home, and wear comfortable shoes or slippers instead. This will give your feet and body a chance to recover from the stress of wearing heels.
Stretch Your Feet and Legs
Stretch your feet and legs regularly throughout the day. This will help prevent your muscles from becoming too tight, and will also improve circulation.
Invest in Good Quality Shoes
Invest in good quality shoes that fit well. Poorly fitting shoes can cause a lot of problems, no matter what the style. Choose shoes that are comfortable and fit well to minimize the damage you are doing to your feet and body.
Conclusion
In conclusion, high heels are incredibly dangerous for your health. They increase your risk of falls, cause foot pain and discomfort, make you more prone to arthritis, and can cause permanent damage to your feet.
It’s important to remember that you don’t have to sacrifice your health for style. There are plenty of fashionable shoes that are comfortable and won’t harm your feet and body. By taking care of your feet and choosing your footwear wisely, you can look amazing and feel great at the same time!.