High heeled shoes.  I am typically referring to the type of heels that are 2 inches or more in height.  Wearing these shoes invite all types of foot problems.  These shoes are believed to be biomechanically and structurally unsound.  There are several medical, postural and safety faults of these types of heels. 

For example, high heels has been known to increase knee pain, back problems, disabling injuries in falls, shortened calf muscles, and an awkward unnatural gait.  With time, high heels can precipitate enough changes in the feet to impair their proper function.  Most women admit high heels make their feet hurt, but they tolerate the discomfort in order to look stylish, taller, and more professional.  In a Gallup Poll, 37% of the women surveyed said they would continue to wear high heels, even though they did not find them comfortable. 

There is a way to have your cake and eat it too.  Simply limit the amount of time you spend wearing the high heel.  Alternate the heels with oxford type shoes throughout the day.  Wear them for shorter periods of time. 

Avoid buying pairs of shoes earlier in the day.  Tight fitting shoes (especially the high heels) contribute to many more foot problems.  Go shoe shopping later in the day when your feet are more swollen or are increased in size. 

The good news out there is that many shoe companies are realizing the need for dress shoes that aren’t necessarily high heeled.  There are many different options that you can search through to find a good fitting pair of shoes that are stylish enough for any occasion.

Pregnancy:  as your body prepares for the birth of your child, this has direct affect on your feet.  Have you ever heard your grandmother or mother say that her foot increased in size with each of their children’s births?  Your body releases special chemicals during pregnancy to relax the ligaments in the birth canal in order for the baby to be born.  These same chemicals can cause the ligaments in the feet to do te same thing.  As they relax and stretch from the increased weight of the baby, it is very possible that your feet will change in size.  Pay close attention to your feet while pregnant.  Wear good sturdy shoes to accommodate for the extra weight put on your feet during this short time in your life. 

Older Women have special problems with their feet.  Achilles tendonitis, hammertoes, Bunions, Metatarsalgia, Neuromas, Pump Bump and Plantar Fasciits often crop up at age 65 and older.  There is a natural loss of your protective fat pad underneath the front of your feet just behind the toes.  With this loss of fat pad, the foot problems become magnified.  What was once there to provide padding is no longer present.  Dr. Nelson can help with this type of pain as well. 

For more information please contact Dr. Nelson »

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