Heels and posture

When we think of high heels we immediately relate them to femininity. This accessory, adored by many women, stylizes both the feet and the silhouette, brings elegance, whether by day or by night, and there are shoes and heels for all tastes.

In many occasions, this touch of glamour means for many women to endure discomfort in their feet, as well as in other joints and back.

Therefore, we present some tips to counteract the feeling of discomfort that may cause and that, in this way, women do not have to do without the king of accessories.

Recommendations for the use of heels

• Shoes with a wide base (peep toe style) allow for less overload in the weight bearing area and produce less discomfort, although stability is also lower.
• Try to avoid wearing heels higher than 2.5 to 3 cm for many hours. The higher the heels, the shorter the wearing time should be.
• The use of silicone padsis always recommended, it allows for greater cushioning when walking.
• After wearing heels, it is advisable to takecontrast baths(10 minutes of cold water + 10 minutes of hot water alternating them for about half an hour).
• Afterwards, use natural skin moisturizers(Argan or sweet almond oil is recommended).
• If you want to wear your heels for a long time, it is advisable to carry a spare pair of comfortable shoes (such as ballerinas) in your handbag just in case.

Posture and heels

Heels lead to changes in the “natural” posture of the spine, and a sustained increase in this posture can lead to localised pain, generally in the lumbar, dorsal and cervical areas.

Body exercises are important to reduce possible discomfort caused by changes in posture.

 

Recommended exercises after wearing high-heeled shoes

 

• Do short abdominals to strengthen the lumbar zone and compensate for poor spinal posture. (legs bent at 45 degrees and arms behind your neck or crossed over your chest, and raise only the upper part of the back from the ground).
• Stretching of the calves to reduce the effects of muscular shortening and the Achilles tendon.
• Going for a run periodically or doing some sport such as swimming to improve muscular balance.
• Visit a registered physiotherapist, who will be able to evaluate your case and give you the most appropriate recommendations.
• Perform relaxation techniques to relax your back.
• If discomfort persists, it is also advisable to consult a chiropodist to make an exhaustive evaluation of your feet and find out their condition.

At Corps à l’Aise we have physiotherapy and chiropody services which specialise in these subjects. You can consult us without any commintment.