Flats are boring. High heels are sexy. But here’s the thing, your killer heels are killing your feet and legs much more than you think.
Statistics show that wearing high heels is one of the leading causes of foot problems in women, ranging from minor concerns like bunions and calluses to serious problems like damage to leg tendons and osteoarthritis of the knee. But still, many women will not give up their stilettos. A survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association revealed that majority of women would still wear their favorite pair of heels even if it gives them discomfort.
So what’s the solution? Well, if you MUST wear them at all, at least be extra careful. Here are some tips from experts on how to wear killer heels without killing your feet.
Stand on Softer Ground
Wearing high heels put a lot of pressure on the balls of your feet, and standing on a concrete or a hard floor intensifies the pressure even more. Give your feet a break by standing on soft surfaces, such as a rug.
Invest in good quality insoles
Slipping in some insoles inside your heels can make a lot of difference. They help absorb shock and distribute pressure and weight across your feet instead of concentrating them on just a few toes.
Stretch your legs out
After a long day of walking and standing on high heels, your calf muscle and Achilles tendon experience some shrinking. So, as soon as you get home, allow your legs to rest and then give them some stretching exercises.
Give your feet a nice soak
This is best to do in the morning after your feet have rested during the night. Just fill your tub (or a basin) with warm water, sprinkle some Epsom salt, and then soak your feet for at least 15 minutes. This will help reduce inflammation in your feet and prevent cramping.
