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.

Playing up your best features

“What’s my best asset?” Asking this question can help you select an outfit that will make you feel good about yourself and wow your man at the same time. If you love your curves, for instance, find a dress that accentuates them and makes you sexier and sultrier. If you’re proud of your shoulders, a strapless or tube dress will emphasize them and make you look more feminine.

Choosing an outfit you can wear again

We know Valentine’s Day is an important event and that you should dress to the nines for it, but don’t buy something that will just sit at the back of your closet after you take it off! Pick a dress, top, or skirt that you can mix and match with other pieces and give you your money’s worth.

Picking comfortable shoes

You don’t know what your date has in store for you, so don’t be too complacent and think that you’ll just sit at a restaurant the entire night. Look for shoes that are sexy and feminine but can still let you walk without killing your feet. This way, you can enjoy the romantic walk along the beach or the hand-in-hand stroll down the park that your man has planned.

Being yourself

Your man asked you out for the date because he likes you, not your clothes. So, on Valentine’s Day, don’t give in to the pressure to be somebody else. If you don’t really like sweetheart necklines, don’t force yourself to wear one. If you’re not a stiletto girl, stick to wedges or even flats. Show up as yourself; your date will like you no matter what you’re wearing.

Use these tips now to come up with a fabulous outfit for Valentine’s Day!