Wearing high heels can significantly alter the biomechanics of the feet, leading to various effects that extend beyond fashion considerations. The elevation of the heel shifts the body's weight forward, causing increased pressure on the balls of the feet and toes. This can result in discomfort, pain, and even the development of conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas over time. The arch of the foot is also affected, as high heels can cause it to become overly extended or flattened, potentially contributing to issues such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. Additionally, high heels can affect balance and stability, increasing the risk of ankle sprains or falls. Prolonged wear of high heels may lead to muscular imbalances and changes in gait patterns, further exacerbating foot problems. If you have foot pain and feel it may be coming from frequently wearing high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you relief tips.

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 providers from Gentle Touch Foot Medspa. Our staff members 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 Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels can stem from various factors, both medical and environmental. Dry skin, prolonged standing, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and dehydration can contribute to this common condition. Additionally, medical conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or thyroid disorders can exacerbate heel cracking. Symptoms may include pain, itching, redness, and deep fissures, increasing the risk of infection. Prevention is key to managing cracked heels. Podiatrists offer specialized care to address underlying causes of cracked heels, treat complications, and provide personalized advice for maintaining foot health, ensuring optimal comfort and mobility. If you have severely cracked heels or have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you seek treatment from a podiatrist.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our providers from Gentle Touch Foot Medspa. Our staff members can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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

Regular foot exercises are essential for maintaining strength and flexibility while preventing common foot problems and injuries. Simple routines such as toe stretches and calf raises can improve flexibility and reduce the risk of conditions like plantar fasciitis. Exercises like toe scrunches and picking up objects with the toes strengthen foot muscles, enhancing stability and balance. If you have foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. This type of doctor can also recommend valuable guidance for personalized exercise recommendations tailored to individual needs and foot conditions.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our providers from Gentle Touch Foot Medspa. Our staff members will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

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