High heels are great for giving your legs a little extra
definition and add a little more sass to your overall look. Did you know that
with each new pair of sexy heels you buy, there are long lasting medical
consequences? Some of your chronic pain could be attributed to your choice in
shoes.
Anatomy of High Heels
Wearing high heels throws off your natural center of gravity
by pushing the spine and hips forward. The body has to readjust how it
naturally balances in order to compensate for the unnatural position. Some
women develop a condition known as sciatica which causes pain and numbness down
in your back, hips and feet.
The spine has a natural S curve and acts as a natural shock
absorber. High heels throw off the body’s natural form causing a strain to the
muscles in your back often leading to chronic back pain. Wearing high heels every day changes your anatomy. Heels can
cause your calf muscles to shrink and your knees to shift forward.
Carrying the Weight
When you wear high heels, the forefoot has to bear the
weight. A one-inch heel means the ball of your feet carry 22% of your body
weight, two-inch heels is 57% and with three-inch heel means your forefoot
carries 76% of your body weight!
High heels that are three inches or higher can cause your achilles
tendon to shrink. If you insist on wearing heels, try to keep them under two
inches and only wear for a short period of time.
Injuries
One in ten women wears high heels at least three times per
week. One-third of high heel wearers admits to falling down while wearing high
heels. Wearing high heels can also lead to overworking your leg muscles leading to injury and chronic pain.
Prevention
You don’t have to give up your high heels. It is best that
if you wear them try to stay under two inches. When you are at the office, keep
a pair of flats at work and alternate throughout the day. Stretch your calf
muscles before and after wearing your killer heels. Visit a massage therapist
to make sure your body stays healthy.
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