High Price of Wearing Heels

Recent studies have shown that over the years, wearing high heels can actually change a person's anatomy. It is commonly understood that high heels can cause aching discomfort in feet if worn for prolonged period of time. Heels can also result in numerous types of foot deformities if worn regularly. However, this new research points to the fact that the incline of high heels, which causes calf muscles to tighten, can also cause muscle fibers to shorten and the Achilles tendon to become rigid and thicker. The result? Women who have a history of wearing high heels can experience discomfort when wearing shoes that are flat, such as sneakers and ballet flats.

The experiment that was published by the Journal of Experimental Biology compared two groups of women: one group of women had been wearing five centimeter heels for a minimum of two years and a control group of women who did not wear high heels. The results were surprising! The women who wore heels for a minimum two-years had calf muscle fibers that were 13% shorter than the women who did not wear heels. Additionally, the women who wore heels also had thicker Achilles tendons which was visible to researchers when using an MRI. It is unfortunate that women who have a history of wearing high heels now experience discomfort while wearing flatter shoes which are healthier for feet.

Overall, wearing high heels overtime can be one of the main causes for many uncomfortable conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, and nerve damage. If you are experiencing pain or are concerned about the condition of your feet or ankles, please don't hesitate to give us a call and schedule an appointment (425) 391-8666. We see patients from all over region including Issaquah, Snoqualmie, North Bend, Bellevue, Redmond, Seattle, and Mercer Island. We are conveniently open Monday-Thursday from 7am to 6pm and Friday from 8am to noon.

Pregnancy and Healthy Feet!

Unsuitable footwear is one of the main culprits of foot and ankle pain for pregnant women. A recent study conducted by the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists in the U.K. reports that pregnant women often wear shoes that lack support or have too high of a heel. The study listed ballet pumps, Ugg style boots, and flip flops as the main offenders.

It's important to prioritize your health and comfort during pregnancy - make sure you're wearing shoes that support your feet and minimize your risk of falling. If you are unsure about what types of shoes are right for you, schedule an appointment with us and we can help direct you toward healthy options.

If you're currently experiencing heel or arch pain, do not hesitate to give us a call. We are licensed podiatrists and can conduct a biomechanical gait evaluation to help diagnose why you may be having discomfort. We may be able to help alleviate your pain by prescribing custom-made orthotics or implementing other innovative treatments.

If you live in Seattle, Bellevue, Sammamish, Issaquah, Snoqualmie or the surrounding areas, please don't hesitate to give us a call and schedule an appointment. We are open Monday through Thursday from 7am to 6pm and Friday from 8am to noon. Our office number is 425-391-8666.