The impact of shoes on our health is an increasingly discussed topic. Shoes play an essential role in our daily lives by providing comfort and style. However, each pair has its own characteristics, some being more beneficial for our feet than others. In this article, we are going to highlight three types of shoes that podiatrists generally recommend wearing to keep our feet healthy.
High heels are a staple fashion item in many women´s wardrobes. They add a touch of elegance and increase self-confidence. However, behind this glamor hides a harsh reality: these shoes are often the cause of foot problems.
High heels place the foot in an angled position that concentrates excessive pressure on the front of the foot. This can lead to painful conditions like bunions, hammer toes, and metatarsalgia. In addition, regular wearing of high heels can cause retraction of the Achilles tendon and increased curvature of the spine, leading to back pain and postural disturbances.
Flip-flops, a popular shoe choice during the hot summer months, are popular for their ease of use and ventilation. However, they are also considered one of the worst shoe choices by many podiatrists.
Flip flops offer very little arch support, which can lead to overpronation, a condition where the foot rolls inward while walking. This excessive pronation can lead to heel, knee, hip, and back pain. Also, to prevent slipping, the toes tend to cling together, which can lead to excessive strain and problems such as claw toes. In addition, flip-flops put the feet at an increased risk of injury and infection.
Running is an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise. However, the choice of running shoes can make a big difference to an athlete´s foot health and performance. Wearing the wrong running shoes, whether in size, fit or support, is a common mistake made by many runners, especially those who are just starting out.
Wearing the wrong running shoes can cause blisters, corns, and ingrown toenails. Additionally, it can also lead to more serious injuries like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and windshield wiper syndrome. Shoes should be properly sized and provide adequate support for your foot type (flat, normal, or arched). It is advisable to get evaluated by a professional before choosing a pair of running shoes.
The choice of shoes may seem like a trivial decision, but as we have seen, it has important implications for our foot health. High heels, flip-flops, and the wrong running shoes can all cause a variety of problems, ranging from temporary discomfort to long-term ailments.
However, that doesn´t mean you have to give up these shoes forever. Moderation and caution are the keys. It is possible to wear high heels for special occasions, as long as you limit the time you spend wearing them. Flip flops can be worn at the beach or pool, but they shouldn´t be your go-to for a long walk. Finally, investing in a pair of running shoes that fits your specific needs is a good investment for your long-term health.
The next time you´re tempted to buy a pair of shoes, remember that the health of your feet is just as important as the style. Sometimes it´s better to focus on fashionable comfort. After all, as the saying goes, "If your feet are happy, you are happy".
