For many women, a pair of glamorous and festive high heels is a must for the holiday party season. Unfortunately, sky-high heels can do a real number on your poor feet—even if they’re not part of your daily footwear repertoire!
Our expert team of podiatrists at Premier Foot & Ankle is dedicated to diagnosing foot and ankle conditions and treating them, and we’re eager to educate you about proper foot care.
We know it’s unrealistic to expect you’ll never indulge your inner fashionista, and holiday parties are when you especially want to shine. We also know it’s no fun to pick out the perfect outfit for your New Year’s Eve, for example, and then be limited to decidedly undramatic flats.
We want to offer tips on keeping your feet well and pain-free this holiday season — even if you choose to wear a killer pair of shoes.
First, let’s talk about why you should limit your time wearing high heels. These types of shoes:
Since wearing high heels upsets the alignment of muscles and joints in addition to damaging your feet and causing pain, women who wear them frequently are prone to neck, shoulder, and lower back pain.
We put together helpful guidelines for looking fabulous over the holidays while preserving your foot comfort and preventing injury.
By only donning heels for brief periods of time — a few hours here and there — you lower your risk of pain or getting hurt as a result of wearing them.
There’s no shame in toting along a pair of more comfortable backup shoes if your feet really start to hurt.
Only wear your heels if you’re going to be walking on an even, non-slippery surface. At outdoor parties, injuries can happen if you’re navigating uneven surfaces like brick patios or bumpy ground.
You’re at greater risk of wiping out in heels if you get tipsy, so plan to limit your alcohol intake over the course of the evening.
Having strong legs helps you balance better and reduces your risk of injury from falling while wearing high heels, so be sure to include leg-strengthening exercises in your workout.
If you know you’re going to wear a certain pair of shoes to a party, do a practice run in them. You’ll know better how to maneuver yourself and be less likely to sustain an injury.
All high heels are not alike. Look for heels that aren’t extremely tall and narrow, and be sure the shoes have ample toe boxes that aren’t pointy. This way, the ball of your foot isn’t so stressed.
Don’t worry, we still think you should have loads of fun as you tiptoe and tango your way through seasonal festivities in fun shoes — just make sure you do it while preserving your precious feet!
If you’re dealing with foot issues you’d like to address before the holiday festivities begin, call one of our five convenient Texas locations today or book your appointment online anytime.
