Are you among the millions of women who wear high heels day after day? For years, experts have known about the detrimental consequences of high heels on the health and function of the human body. They can cause the formation of bunions, corns, neuromas and hammertoes in feet as well as knee, hip and lower back pain.
Now, a team of scientists from Australia have identified yet another concern of high heels. In a research article published in the Journal of Applied Physiology, they discovered that women who habitually wear high heels tend to walk differently. They place more strain on their calf muscles and increase their risk of injury. These scientists studied nine women who use high heels at least 40 hours per week and ten women who wear high heels less than 10 hours per week. After observing and analyzing the women's gait patterns, they discovered that the heel wearers tended to walk with shorter, more forceful strides compared to those that did not wear high heels. These women also held their feet in a flexed, hammertoe position even when walking barefoot. In addition, the researchers suggested that this altered walking style may increase muscle fatigue.
To combat this concern, try wear flats most of time and only switch into heels sparingly. If you're going to buy heels, avoid those with pointy tips and opt for a pair with a wide toe box. Once you reach your destination, give your feet a breather under the desk or table, and especially take them off if you plan on dancing. Alternating with flats for part of the day is also beneficial.
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