By Rita R. Robison, Consumer Specialist, Blogging at The Survive and Thrive Boomer Guide

Guest Blogger

Although many women think high heels make them look glamorous, wearing heels can lead to foot problems.

Wearing heels changes the way women walk. It puts the center of gravity on the ball of the foot.

High heels – and tight shoes – can cause or worsen bunions, corns, and hammertoes. Foot pain, including significant pain in the ball of the foot, is common. Lower back, knee, and ankle pain also may be a problem. The higher the heel, the worse the problems.

Your chances of falling also are increased if you wear high heels.

If you must wear heels, alternate wearing them with flat shoes. You can also try calf-stretching exercises daily. Shoe padding also may help because the front part of shoe soles are often thin.

You’re less likely to have foot problems if you wear a lower heel, two inches or under.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends no more than three hours in three-inch heels.

Look for shoes that are comfortable when you buy them. You need to be able to wiggle your toes. Shoes also should have strong sole that flexes at the ball of your foot. Look for wide toes, more cushioning, and more arch support.

Make sure that you’re wearing the right size shoe. Shoe size can change as you get older because the feet may spread and lengthen.

More companies are now making more walker friendly, fashionable shoes. Among them are Naturalizer, Ecco, Aerosole, Cole Hahn, and Taryn Rose.

See these references for more information:

“High-Heeled Shoes – Bad for the Body” – About.com

“In the Relentless Pursuit of Fashion, the Feet Pay the Price” – The New York Times

“On Your Feet” – Washingtonpost.com

“Tips to Avoid Foot Pain From High Heels” – WebMD

“Proper Footwear Can Reduce Foot Problems” – American Podiatric Medical Association

“Winter Is Tough on Feet” – U.S. News and World Report

“Footwear” – American Podiatric Medical Association

“Footwear Guide” – American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

“If the Shoe Fits, Wear It” – American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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