High heels can be found in most women's wardrobes. While stylish, they force you to walk in an unnatural position where too much pressure is applied to your toes and the bottoms of your feet. The fat pad on the bottom of a foot also decreases with age, and this reduces the natural cushioning necessary for comfortable walking. This means that wearing high heels can become less comfortable as you get older. It's not as though you should give up wearing high heels altogether, but it's important to be sensible. So what do you need to be aware of when it comes to high heels and your feet?

The Ideal Height for High Heels

Shoe shops will sell high heels in a variety of heights, but higher is not better. You should opt to wear high heels that are no more than three inches (7.6 centimetres) in height. This height ensures that any ongoing stress placed on your toes and the fat pads on your feet is minimal. Wearing high heels of an appropriate height at a younger age will reduce the chances of foot problems in later life.

Orthotics for Extra Cushioning

Orthotics can be helpful. You can get gel-filled shoe inserts designed specifically for high heels. These inserts provide cushioning for your feet and will reduce the pressure on your toes. Ensure that your shoes are large enough to comfortably accommodate both your feet and the inserts; otherwise, you might get blisters.

Wearing High Heels for Work

It can be advisable to not wear high heels at all times if you need them for work. Consider wearing comfortable shoes with good arch support (such as running shoes) during your commute. You can change into your high heels once you arrive at work. You might also wish to get into the habit of slipping out of your shoes while sitting at your desk (if possible). This allows your feet to rest.

Tingling and Numbness

After a long day at work (or a night out) in high heels, your feet can easily feel sore and tired. But if you experience an ongoing tingling or numbness in your feet (even when you're not wearing high heels), it can be a sign of nerve damage. You should see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Wearing your high heels less often can be the solution, or you might need to wear shoes with a considerably lower heel.

By wearing high heels sensibly, you will ensure that you will be able to wear them for a very long time, while still keeping your feet happy and healthy. For more tips and information, contact a podiatrist in your area.