MTA has announced the creation of a “high heel-friendly” sidewalk grate in Manhattan. These new grates will make it “easier to navigate for those wearing high-heeled shoes” since the grates “are made with slip-resistant surfaces and the openings between the cross-bars are only ½ inch wide.” Walking across sidewalk grates is potentially damaging for those who wear high heels. Heels can become caught in the grates and can turn into a dangerous situation. The installation of a high-heel-friendly sidewalk grate presents new advancements toward foot care.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Dr. Marc R. Frankel of The Frankel Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts of 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. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Milford, PA, Warwick, NY, and Middletown, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
