My Feet Are Killing Me Star Reveals How To Avoid Foot Pain In High Heels

A study conducted at Bucknell University found that women wearing high heels are perceived as more sexually attractive, physically attractive, feminine, and of higher status.

These findings may have a potential effect on your daily footwear decision-making process.

But before you reach for your tallest pair of stilettos, see what board-certified podiatrist and foot surgeon at SOLE Podiatry NYC and star of TLC’s ‘My Feet Are Killing Me’ Dr. Brad Schaeffer has got What to say to avoid the havoc that heels can cause. cause.

fit is crucial

Almost all of us are guilty of choosing beauty over comfort and squeezing our precious toes into a fashionable pair of shoes without thinking about the consequences.

According to the doctor, ill-fitting shoes can cause injuries and long-term problems.

‘You want to have a little extra wiggle room (between a quarter inch and a half inch of space) in front so your toes don’t curl up.

“You should also make sure you size based on your largest foot, as most people have one foot that’s slightly larger than the other.”

Shoes that are too small or too big can wreak havoc on your feet.

Tight heels can lead to friction and poor circulation. Conversely, heels that are too loose can cause the foot to slip inside the shoe.

“This can also cause friction-related issues and can affect your toes from repeatedly bumping into the front of your shoes.”

Stay closer to the ground, your feet will thank you.

Models stormed the runway at Georges Hobeika Haute Couture Spring Summer 2023 on Monday, January 23, wearing platform stilettos that were at least 5 inches tall.

While the super high platform has become very popular with the fashion set, they are not to be worn every day, all day.

“The higher the heel, the more stress they tend to put on your feet,” shares Dr. Brad.

“Some extremely high-heeled shoes put your feet in a direct drop onto the flat of the shoe.”

If you’re new to walking in heels, the doctor and TV star recommends a pair under three inches.

You get what you pay for – design and quality matter

Unlike other fashion categories, buying a fast fashion shoe could cause health problems.

‘Qquality matters, orOpt for breathable materials that prevent your feet from sweating too much, which can lead to friction and ultimately cause painful sores or blisters.

‘If you choose leather heels, make sure you choose a higher quality leather. Heels that are made of lower quality plastic-like materials make it difficult for your feet to breathe. They also tend to be less flexible, which can lead to cuts and irritation.’

The podiatrist and surgeon recommends thicker heels (on platforms or wedges) instead of thin stilettos for comfort, support, and stability.

Common problems caused by heels

“One of the most common foot problems I see in my office with women who wear heels a lot is plantar fasciitis, which is essentially inflammation of the heel of the foot,” said Dr. Brad.

We all have a rubber band-like structure, called the plantar fascia, on the bottom of our feet that joins the heel bone to the ball of our foot.

“When the plantar fascia gets too tight, it can become inflamed and very painful,” she explains.

Mix it up and rotate your footwear

Dr. Brad believes that heels should not be worn for long periods of time.

“It’s always a good idea to alternate between heels and flats or lower heels throughout the week to give your feet a rest.

“Try to change your shoes throughout the day so you don’t put pressure on the balls of your feet, arches, or heels.”

Fortunately, in a post-covid world, stylish shoes are not limited to high heels.

The luxury designer sneaker market is booming and shows no signs of slowing down, with models walking the runway during Louis Vuitton Womenswear Fall/Winter 2022-2023 in trainers.

For those who commute to work, the ‘My Feet Are Killing Me’ star suggests wearing sneakers or shoes with thick soles, shock absorption and good arch support, to and from the office.

Happy feet require comfortable toes.

“No matter your height or build, the key is that you want the toes and front of your feet to have enough room to be comfortable, while the heel clips snugly into the back of the shoe,” says the podiatrist.

‘And I can never repeat this enough: their bows must be held! The biggest problem with pitching and pitching is ball of foot pain and associated fat pad atrophy.

‘Another problem can be neuromas! This is a pinched nerve due to tight or ill-fitting shoes/heels.’

Wait until the end of the day to buy shoes

They say that shoes are like desserts, there is always room for one more. And while shopping for shoes can sometimes provide an instant dopamine rush, you might want to consider that when shopping for them.

‘To make sure you’re buying a shoe or heel that fits you well, consider shopping later in the day, after you’ve been on your feet for a while.

“This will give you a more accurate representation of your foot size,” says the doctor.

‘Never buy a heel with the intention of “breaking” it. That usually just means the fit isn’t ideal. Trust your gut – your feet will thank you!

Walking in heels is an exercise, stretch

“It may seem like a no-brainer, but massaging and stretching legs and feet at the end of the day helps,” said the expert.

‘For pain in your toes, rub between each toe, it can help with circulation and usually relieves some of the pain.

“Heels also put a lot of stress on the tendons and calf muscles, so stretching those areas can help as well.”

To reduce inflammation, he recommends icing your feet for 5 to 20 minutes a day. To relieve sore muscles, prepare a warm foot bath with Epsom salt, or apply a topical pain-relieving medication with a cooling ingredient such as menthol or eucalyptus.

Cushioning for the win

Fashion rules state that shoes can make or break an outfit and that’s especially true if you’re in excruciating pain.

“Investing in some cushions and insoles can allow you to have style without compromising comfort,” said the podiatrist and foot surgeon who favors Dr. Scholl’s products.

‘Ball of foot cushions like Dr. Scholl’s® Stylish Step® Ball of Foot Cushions for High Heels are a great option. They can support your feet and help you avoid unnecessary friction. They can also help prevent chafing and painful blisters or bunions.’

‘dr. Scholl’s® Stylish Step® Invisible Cushioning High Heel Insoles have cushioned arch support that helps take pressure off the ball of your foot and flex with each step. The invisible gel is discreet and perfect for open heels or sandals.’