After three years of research Tanya Heath has a patented design for a multi-height heel which can go from nine to four centimeters. This sort of shoe would allow women to switch the heel height to something more manageable if the shoe started to hurt. Heath herself knows what it is like to suffer with high heels. “I had enough of aching feet, and I refused point blank to wear ballerina flats,” Heath joked. The shoes are made completely in France and Heath has sold over 800 pairs since February.

This comes as great news to those suffering from foot pain due to excessive high heel usage. The option to switch back and forth between short or high heels can help reduce foot pain, stop the development of bunions, and no longer force you to carry around a pair of flats. However, if you are suffering foot pain, heel pain, or ankle pain due to excessive high heel usage, it is highly recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist, like Dr. Robert Parker of Parker Foot & Ankle. Dr. Parker can help diagnose any foot problems you might be having and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts my body will be affected by high heels?

• Ankle Joints

• Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear

• Balls of the Feet

• Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them

• Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?

• Corns

• Calluses

• Hammertoe

• Bunions

• Morton’s Neuroma

• Plantar Fasciitis

How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads. 

If you have any questions, please contact our office in Houston, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.