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The 5 reasons wearing heels is GOOD for you and 4 fashion mistakes harming your health
A podiatrist shares how heels could benefit your health - and harm it
OFTEN the cause of throbbing feet and blisters, many of a think of high heeled shoes as something that have to be endured for the sake of special occasions.
So it stands to reason that we try to avoid the pointed torture devices at all costs.
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But to the surprise of anyone who's ever hobbled around awkwardly on stilettos, recent research has revealed wearing heels may not be all bad.
Both men and women who donned a pair for several months soon began walking different and adopted a more efficient gait, research conducted by the University of Texas found.
Meanwhile, scientists at the Georgia Institute of Technology found that people who'd never worn heels before toughened up their ankle and calf tendons after walking in specially-made trainers with three-inch heels daily for 14 weeks.
Speaking on behalf of Freemans, podiatrist Dina Gohil revealed five ways in which walking in heels might actually benefit your health.
Read more on fashion risks
“Research suggesting that individuals who regularly wear heeled shoes may be more efficient walkers has indeed emerged, particularly in terms of biomechanical efficiency," she told Sun Health.
"Here are some potential positive impacts associated with wearing heeled shoes."
1. Improved posture
Ever notice you immediately stand up straighter when you slip on heels?
According to the podiatrist, the shoes may be able to improve your posture long-term.
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"Wearing heels can encourage a more upright posture by tilting the pelvis forward and aligning the spine," Dina said.
"This can lead to better overall posture, which may reduce strain on the lower back and improve spinal alignment."
2. Increased muscle activation
As suggested by the Georgia Institute of Technology, a night on the town in heels can come with exercise included.
"Heeled shoes can engage and strengthen certain muscle groups," Dina said.
This not only includes your calf muscles, but your hamstrings and glutes might also work harder when you slip on heeled shoes.
These muscles "work to stabilise the body and maintain balance while walking in heels," Dina explained.
3. Enhanced gait efficiency
According to the podiatrist: "Some studies suggest that wearing heels can improve walking efficiency by promoting a more economical gait pattern.
"This may include shorter stride lengths and increased cadence, which could potentially result in reduced energy expenditure during walking."
Owen Beck, an assistant professor of kinesiology at the University of Texas at Austin, even suggested that high heels might serve “as a training tool” for people with mobility issues or for athletes wish to be able to move faster and with more ease.
But he did note that more research on the matter is needed.
4. Heightened body awareness
Wearing heels can also take an effect on the rest of your body, Dina revealed.
"Wearing heels requires individuals to be more conscious of their body positioning and balance, which can lead to greater body awareness over time," she suggested.
It's important to note that while these potential benefits exist, wearing heels may also pose certain risks, especially if worn excessively or improperly fitted
Dina Gohil
"This heightened awareness may translate to improved coordination and stability during walking and other activities."
5. Boosted confidence
Though they may pinch your toes, strutting into a room in a pair of stilettos can undeniably make you feel like a million dollars - as long as you don't trip and go flying.
According to Dina, this confidence boost isn't something to dismiss.
"For many individuals, wearing heels can contribute to a sense of confidence and empowerment," she explained.
"This psychological boost may positively influence walking mechanics and overall performance."
WEAR WITH CAUTION
Though might be tempted dig out the heels you keep at the back of your cupboard for special occasions, Dina did warn that the shoes can still pose some risks to your feet.
“It's important to note that while these potential benefits exist, wearing heels may also pose certain risks, especially if worn excessively or improperly fitted," she said.
"Prolonged use of high heels can lead to issues such as foot pain, decreased ankle stability, and altered bio-mechanics.
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"Additionally, not everyone may experience the same positive effects from wearing heels, and individual factors such as foot structure and preexisting conditions should be considered.
“Ultimately, while research suggests some potential benefits of wearing heeled shoes on walking efficiency, it's essential for individuals to prioritise comfort, safety, and overall foot health when choosing footwear.
"Consulting with a podiatrist or other healthcare professional can provide personalised guidance on footwear choices and address any concerns related to foot health and function.”
Fashion mistakes harming your health
THE expression 'beauty is pain' is all too true in some cases, as fashion can be the harbinger of health woes.
From skinny jeans to bras, here's how your clothing could be harming your health.
- Skinny jeans
By far the most popular jean shape of the early 2010s, there's reason to dread them coming back into fashion.
Their second skin style can cause pelvic floor problems, according to pelvic floor expert at Kegel8, Stephanie Taylor, who says that squeezing in your stomach for long periods of time puts pressure on your pelvic floor which can lead to potential bladder incontinence.
2. High waisted jeans
Skinny jeans aren't the only fashion faux pas when it comes to your health.
More high waisted styles can contribute to poor gut health, according to Julie Thomson, patient information and gastroenterology dietitian at Guts UK.
She says tight and high waistbands could make reflux symptoms worse and cause discomfort and bloating
3. Poorly fitted bras
According to Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, a Professor of Biomechanics, University of Portsmouth, lack of breast support from a poorly fitting bra can lead to breast pain.
"Ill-fitting bras have also been associated with neck, back and shoulder pain, bad posture, and rubbing and chafing leading to skin abrasions," the expert adds.
4. Tights and synthetic underwear
On the subject of tight clothing that harms your health, Dr Melanie Bone, a gynaecologist and member of Daye’s medical board says that tights and synthetic underwear are pretty common triggers for thrush.
"These factors create warm, moist conditions that promote yeast growth," she explains.