Ease the Pain of Wearing High Heels
If you have been to our clinic recently, then you probably know about 50% of our team live in high heels. It is no secret that high heels, worn over a long period of time or if not the right fit, can affect your entire body from the spine down to your toes, and not in a good way.
When wearing heels, a woman’s centre of gravity is pushed forward, forcing the hips and spine out of alignment. This causes tension and often pain, which is why we have done our research to find out what can help ease the pain when and after wearing high heels.
Tip #1
Make sure your heels fit. Wearing the right size (length and width) shoe for you is the most important thing to help keep you clear of foot pain and discomfort.
You should always try on the shoes before you buy them to make sure they are a good fit. Try to stay away from buying shoes online. If the shoes are too tight or rubbing, even a little bit, then don’t buy them or return them back to the store.
The right fit is a shoe that is snug, but still has room for you to wiggle your toes and not feel squished.
Tip #2
Heels rounded at the toe are usually a better option than shoes pointed at the toe.
Tip #3
Choose thicker and shorter heels. Thick and short heels help with support, balance of the ankle and eliminate extra stress on the foot.
Tip #4
Aim to find heels with a supportive sole, but if you just can’t live without a pair that doesn’t have a supportive sole, buy them and look into inserts to help cushion and support the foot.
Tip #5
Try to take breaks and stretch your feet during the day. Here are some stretches to try:
- Calf Stretch: Place the ball of your foot on the edge of the stair. Keep your right leg straight and let your heel fall backward off of the step. Hold that position for 30 seconds and then repeat the stretch with the other foot.
- Hip-flexor stretch: Step backward with your right leg, both toes facing forward. Bend both knees and tuck your pelvis so your hip bones move toward your ribs. Feel a stretch in the top of the right thigh and hip. Hold for 30 seconds and then repeat with the left leg.
- Toe spreading: Spread your toes five to ten times. Try to make each toe spread evenly.
Tip #6
If your feet are in pain at the end of the day, bath them in a cold bath to reduce the swelling. Apply a nice foot cream before bed.