High heels can have a detrimental effect on your feet, extending beyond mere discomfort. The forward weight shift caused by any heel height can lead to various issues, including hip, back, and knee pain. The pressure exerted on the toes can result in conditions such as bunions and ingrown toenails, while tendinitis may develop over time, especially as one ages. Switching to flats as one ages may not offer relief either. This shift can cause its own set of problems since tendons tighten from high heel wear. Additionally, one can suffer from Morton’s neuroma, and the fat pad beneath the feet tends to thin out with age, leading to metatarsalgia. Moreover, the unstable nature of high heels increases the risk of twisting an ankle. If you wear high heels and either want to continue to do so, or you have sustained foot problems as a result of wearing them, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. This type of doctor can offer you treatment options and guide you in choosing alternative shoes that can improve foot health.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors 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 Woburn, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

When facing a fall with foot injuries, adopting specific techniques can minimize the risk of worsening existing conditions or sustaining further harm. Leaning into the fall can help distribute impact and reduce strain on the feet and ankles. Falling to the side instead of forward or backward can protect the toes from direct trauma. Keeping the knees bent upon impact can absorb shock and prevent excessive strain on the lower limbs. In cases of foot injuries resulting from falls, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for comprehensive evaluation and treatment. Podiatrists possess specialized knowledge in diagnosing and managing foot and ankle injuries. They can assess the extent of damage, and recommend appropriate interventions such as braces, orthotics, or even surgical procedures if necessary.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Custom-made foot orthotics are personalized shoe inserts designed to support and align the feet properly. They are crafted based on an individual's foot shape, biomechanics, and specific needs. Orthotics can help alleviate various conditions such as bunions, foot pain, and plantar fasciitis. Orthotics improve mobility by providing stability, cushioning, and redistributing pressure on the feet. Users often perceive wearing orthotics positively, experiencing reduced discomfort and improved functionality. Orthotics offer relief by correcting foot abnormalities, reducing strain on muscles and joints, and promoting proper alignment. Many find that orthotics enhance their ability to engage in physical activities with less pain and fatigue. However, it is essential to wear them consistently and break them in gradually to allow the feet to adjust. If you are interested in learning whether custom-made orthotics can benefit you, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and discussion.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact the foot specialists from Affiliates in Foot Care, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Woburn, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.