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High heels can leave your feet and other body parts in severe pain. Yes, high heels are fashionable and gorgeous, but when has pain ever been pretty? Cramming your feet into shoes with too-high of heels or wearing them for too long can cause foot pain in the form of bunions, which are not attractive. If you do wear high heels, take a few extra precautions, and treat problems early on. By catching problems early, you will not only avoid many foot issues, but you will make the time you spend in heels a happier day for your feet. Anytime that you wear shoes that are too tight for your foot it is bound to cause foot pain such as bunions. Bunions: What are they and What Causes Them? Often referred to as hallux valgus, bunions are one of the most common forefoot problems. A bunion is a prominent bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint, which is a bone that protrudes towards the inside of the foot. It is common to find the big toe resting under or over the second toe with continued movement. Some symptoms of bunions include:
• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Soreness on the side surface of the big toe Women experience bunions more often than anyone else. Bunions can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis. It is more commonly caused by wearing inappropriate footwear that does not fit well. Wearing dress shoes and heels which are tapered in the toe area, can cause your bunion to worsen to the point where surgery may be necessary. High Heels and Your Foot Pain With so much demand on your feet throughout the day, it doesn't take much to let you know when your shoes are uncomfortable. Do not ignore the warning signs offered by your feet. Heels can place your entire weight and more crushing down on the base of your toes, rather than evenly distributing your weight. When wearing high heels, pain in your feet can quickly escalate to damage. Wearing heels restricts the foot and increases the weight on the area that is being constrained.
Shoes with a heel of two inches or more should be worn in moderation, such as an evening out or a wedding. Heels of an inch to an inch and a half are less likely to cause damage, but should not be worn every day. Allow your feet proper rest between wearing.
Find Relief from Bunions The best relief from bunions is prevention, and that means giving your feet a break from the heels. If a bunion begins to form soaking feet in warm water can provide temporary relief in the early stages. To minimize your chances of developing a bunion, do not force your foot into a shoe that doesn't fit. Improper fitting shoes are the leading cause to bunions and foot pain. Choose shoes that conform to the shape of your foot and do not fit too tightly. If you already have a bunion, it is important to wear shoes that have enough room as to not put pressure on it. When a bunion progresses to the point where walking becomes difficult and conservative treatments aren't effective, you may need surgery. A consultation with your podiatrist will be needed for further diagnosis and to develop a proper treatment plan. If you are exhibiting pain in your feet or notice symptoms of a bunion, contact your Edmond podiatrist for further consultation. Your podiatrist can treat and suggest ways to alleviate and prevent your pain. Remember, no pain in your feet should go ignored. Your feet take the brunt of everything throughout your busy life, take proper care of them.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Ahmed Buksh, a leading podiatrist in Oklahoma City, Norman and Edmond. Specializing in services such as heel pain, foot surgery and Oklahoma City neuroma, patients turn to Dr. Buksh for all of their foot and ankle health care needs.
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