Beware those killer heels
It rightly pointed out that humans are meant to walk heel-to-toe with the leg at a 90-degree angle to the foot, and the ankle joint employing a 60-degree range of motion during normal daily activities.
High-heeled shoes alter the position of the feet and affect their normal function.
Also, they “obliterate” the arch of the feet, which serves to cushion the impact of walking or running on the lower limbs.
This may result in undue pressure on the knees and spine, causing pain to the knees and back, leading to degeneration of these joints in the long term.
Other medical problems include calluses and corns under the balls of the foot, painful inflammation of the joints of the foot, inflammation of the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia (the connective tissue at the bottom of the foot), and even stress fractures.
All these conditions are rather painful and debilitating.
Wearers of high-heeled shoes are also more prone to ankle sprains and even injuries to ankle ligaments and fractures when they fall.
It is certainly not helpful for those in high-heeled shoes to run, given the high risk of such injuries.
Unfortunately, many women feel these shoes make them look good, and some persist in wearing them despite knowing the medical problems that can ensue.
It may be helpful for them to change their shoes in the office and opt for lower-heeled ones for the rest of the day.
High-heeled shoes with a gradual slope and wider heels lower than 2.5cm may be a better option for those who prefer to stick to such footwear.
Source: The Straits Times
Category: Features, Health alert
