By EKalman November 6, 2023 - 1:01am

High heels have long been considered the epitome of style and sophistication in the fashion world. They are often associated with glamour and sensuality. However, have you ever stopped to consider the health risks that come with the elegance of high heels? Read on to learn about the less glamorous side of these fashionable shoes and explore seven health risks you should be aware of.

1. Spider veins
One of the most common side effects of wearing high heels is the development of spider veins. Spider veins are those swollen or twisted veins that typically appear on the legs. They become visible on the skin's surface when there's an issue with circulation. The culprit here is often the design of high heels. When you wear them, your calf muscles contract less, resulting in reduced blood flow in your legs. This, in turn, increases venous blood pressure, stressing the veins' valves and potentially leading to spider vein disease.

While spider veins are generally viewed as a cosmetic issue, some individuals may experience pain, discomfort, itching, or burning sensations as a result.

2. Lower back pain
High heels can lead to displaced vertebrae and lower back pain. These shoes shift your weight onto the balls of your feet, causing your pelvis to move forward. To counteract this, you begin to lean backward, which increases the arch in your lower back and places strain on the lumbar spine.

In addition to lower back pain, high heels might contribute to a chronic spinal nerve condition called foramina stenosis. This condition can result in unpleasant symptoms such as shooting pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, and spasms.

3. Foot problems
Wearing high heels can also give rise to various foot problems, including plantar fasciitis and hammertoe. Plantar fasciitis affects the ligaments in your feet, leading to a decrease in collagen and small tears in the ligaments. This condition can be painful and limit your mobility.

Hammertoe is another concern related to high heels. These shoes place a greater load on your toes compared to flat shoes, causing the toes to bend or curl downward. If you notice changes in your toe shape, it's advisable to consult a foot doctor. If left untreated, hammertoe can worsen.

4. Knee pain
High heels can be particularly harmful to your knees. They create excessive loads on the knee joint, moving your knees further forward than when you walk in flat shoes. This can lead to premature joint aging and even the development of osteoarthritis over time. Additionally, it can contribute to issues like stress fractures and pinched nerves in the legs.

5. Ankle sprains
Even the most comfortable and stable high heels increase your risk of ankle sprains. High heels exert pressure that the ankle joint isn't designed to handle, making it more susceptible to injuries, including twisted or sprained ankles. Over time, wearing high heels can also weaken the ankle, potentially causing nerve damage to the lower leg.

6. Haglund’s deformity
Haglund’s deformity is a widespread issue that affects many women who regularly wear stilettos. It involves a bony enlargement at the back of the heel. This enlargement can rub against your high-heeled shoes, irritating the soft tissue next to your Achilles tendon.

7. Vocal cord problems
This one might surprise you: high heels can potentially lead to breathing problems. These breathing issues can, in turn, harm your delicate vocal cords. Wearing heels for extended periods can cause you to breathe faster and more shallowly, potentially damaging your vocal cords.

The bottom line
While high heels might add to your elegance, you should be mindful of the health risks they present. Balance your stylish choices with supportive, comfy footwear that allows you to preserve your health and well-being.