NYC is known around the world for its unbeatable nightlife. Whether visiting a Manhattan club, enjoying a cultural event, or patronizing one of the city’s countless memorable restaurants, you want to look your best when you’re out on the town. But sometimes, looking fashionable comes at a high price. At Best Foot Doctor NY, we hear from many patients frustrated by heel pain after repeated nights out in high heels.
Many patients believe that the problem is inevitable. Some people assume you’ll suffer from heel spurs and other painful conditions if you wear high heels, and you have to decide whether to pay the price. But we’ve got some good news – it is possible to balance fashion and comfort. This article will explore ways to enjoy fashionable footwear while participating in NYC nightlife – without sacrificing foot health.
What Problems Can High Heels Cause?
Let’s take a look at the bad news first. Unfortunately, wearing high heels – especially the wrong kinds – for too long is a recipe for disaster. Heel pain and toe pain are common among high-heel fans, for various reasons. These are just a few of the conditions you might experience.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes are often caused by wearing shoes that have only a narrow space for your toes. Often, the toe just beside your big toe is affected. It can develop a bend in its joint that causes pain when you walk and a deformed appearance. At Best Foot Doctor NY, we offer hammertoe surgery to correct this condition.
Bunions
Many city dwellers love wearing high heels for a night out in Manhattan or NYC. However, they often develop bunions as a result. A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the base of your big toe. It looks unsightly, and it can also cause pain when you walk. Bunion surgery may be necessary to restore your comfort and mobility.
Corns
High heels often cause pressure and friction when you wear them for long periods. Your feet may respond by developing corns – thick layers of hard skin – in areas where your shoes rub the most. You may need corn removal to address the problem fully.
Ingrown toenails
Since your toes don’t have enough room to spread out properly in narrow shoes, you may develop ingrown toenails if you wear high heels frequently. While surgery can correct ingrown toenails, it’s best to avoid them in the first place if possible, by making careful footwear choices.
Heel spur syndrome
Wearing high heels can cause heel spur syndrome, making it painful to walk, and typically worsens over time. Heel spurs are small calcium deposits that collect on the bottom of your heel bone. Heel spur syndrome treatment is individualized and involves a variety of tools and approaches.
Can I Wear Heels Without Harming My Feet and Causing Heel Pain?
The best shoes for preventing heel pain do not have raised heels. However, lowering your risk of developing foot problems is often possible without completely giving up high heels. Here are a couple of tips that podiatrists recommend.
Choose your heels carefully to lesson heel pain
High heels aren’t the best shoes for heel pain, but some are worse than others. For example, stilettos can be especially bad for your feet. Not only do they frequently cause problems like bunions, corns, and heel spur syndrome, but they can also cause you to fall and sprain your ankle. When possible, choose lower heels that offer stability when you walk. Also, look for a toe box wide enough for your toes to fit comfortably.
Give your feet frequent breaks from high heels
Wearing high heels for short periods can help minimize the damage they cause. Try to bring along a pair of lightweight flats when you’re preparing for a night out. While on the subway or waiting for a taxi, you may want to change into flats until you reach your destination. If your feet feel sore or you notice any pain in the back of the heel, it’s a sign that you need to take a break from standing and walking.
Experiencing Heel Pain? Call Best Foot Doctor NY Today!
Do you enjoy wearing heels for a night out in Manhattan or NYC? Are you experiencing nagging heel pain or discomfort that won’t go away? Visit Best Foot Doctor NY and get the best solutions available. Call Dr. Emmanuel Fuzaylov today at (718) 291 9020!