While heels are a fashion staple for many women, they can cause a lot of strain on the feet and ankles over time, leading to discomfort and even injury.
How High Heels Affect Your Feet and Ankles
Wearing high heels shifts your weight forward, putting excessive pressure on the ball of your foot and toes. This unnatural posture can lead to a range of issues, from bunions and hammertoes to plantar fasciitis. Heels also make your ankles less stable over time, which can make falls and sprains more likely.
Over time, the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can tighten from prolonged wear. This will make it harder to walk comfortably in flat shoes.
Wearing heels too often can even change your foot’s structure and cause long-term problems that require medical attention.
When to See a Specialist
It’s normal to experience occasional soreness after a long day in heels, but persistent pain shouldn’t be ignored. Signs that it’s time to consult a specialist include:
- Chronic foot or ankle pain
- Swelling or stiffness
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Repeated injuries like sprains
Bone & Joint Specialists will help you get back to moving comfortably.
Expert Treatment for Foot and Ankle Pain
Our team provides care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. Treatments may include:
- Physical Therapy: Focused exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore function to the foot and ankle.
- Custom Orthotics: Specially designed shoe inserts to support your arch, redistribute pressure, and alleviate pain caused by improper foot alignment.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis.
- Surgical Options: For severe cases, surgery can correct structural issues like bunions, hammertoes, or ligament damage.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Feet
If high heels are causing you discomfort, you don’t have to suffer. Call Bone & Joint Specialists in Merrillville, IN, at 219-795-3360 to book an appointment. Take care of your feet and ankles with the help of our team.
