I am worried that my high heels will damage my feet and legs. Do I have to give them up entirely?

A:

Truthfully, we wish you would. While we completely understand the appeal of the high heel, we have seen too many injuries to condone their use. However, our Wayne, NJ podiatrists know that for some the habit can be hard to break. If you simply cannot quit altogether, we recommend at least cutting back on frequency.

Simple Ways to Change Your High Heel Habit

There are some easy steps to wean yourself from everyday high heel usage. Our top tips include:

• Wear a comfortable and supportive pair of shoes to and from work 
• Limit heel usage to once or twice a week
• Kick off your heels when seated at your desk
• Use heel-free work time to stretch your toes, ankles and calves

Making even a few of these simple changes goes a long way in reducing the strain on your feet, ankles and legs. Giving your feet a break from heels allows them to return to their natural position. The more often you provide this freedom, the less damage you do to them. 

It is much easier to make these changes now, before you are injured. After an injury due to high heel use, you will likely be out of heels for quite some time. One or two days a week of heel wearing is still more than you'll have if you are hurt. A cast is much less stylish than a cute pair of supportive flats.

If you have any questions or are suffering from pain in your feet, ankles, legs or back, call 973.595.8900. We will gladly schedule an appointment for you with an experienced Wayne, NJ foot doctor. Early intervention is the key to preventing serious and painful injuries.