Are you a wise shoe-shopper? 

6-inch heels, 4-inch heels, wedges, block heels and what not are popular choices among girls today. Not only the youth but even adults have the habit of wearing heels even when they go shopping or on other casual outings. Although they make a feminine figure look more attractive, heels do carry their own risks. Recent research has revealed the risks of wearing heels continuously. While weighing the pros and cons, a few individuals shared their opinions with the Daily Mirror Life.

Udari

Girls have to wear heels when going to a party or to work. But wearing them all the time can cause backaches and other health issues.

Roshan

They make girls look attractive.

Keshini

I have heard people say that heels are not good for the health but when different trends like wedges, 6-inch heels and what not are introduced to the market we too like to try them on.

Himashika

There are two sides to it because we have to dress in different attires to suite the occasion. Therefore, there are times when heels are a must.

Kaushalya

As of today it is a must to wear heels when going to work because it gives a more professional outlook. Therefore the working crowd has a bigger risk than those who wear them occasionally.

Research Findings 

One in 10 women wear high heels at least three days a week and a third have fallen while wearing them. Statistics show that high heels are one of the biggest factors leading to foot problems in women, with up to a third suffering permanent problems as a result of prolonged wear. Extended wear of high heels and continually bending your toes into an unnatural position can cause a range of ailments, from ingrown toenails to irreversible damage to leg tendons. Additionally, cramming your toes into a narrow toe box can cause nerve damage and bunions. High heels have also been linked to overworked or injured leg muscles, osteoarthritis of the knee, plantar fasciitis and low back pain.

Source : www.osteopathic.org/osteopathic-health/about-your-health/health-conditions-library/womens-health/Pages/high-heels.aspx 

Recommended routines 

1. Choose sensible heels -  select shoes with low heels - an inch and a half or less - and a wide heel base.

2. Wear soft insoles to reduce the impact on your knees.

3. Make sure your shoes are the right size - so the foot doesn't slide forward, putting even more pressure on the toes.

4. Wear heels on days that require limited walking or standing.

5. Alternate your shoe choice throughout the day or from one day to the next -  don't wear your high heels all day; and wear more comfortable shoes, such as athletic or walking shoes for commuting to and from work.

6. Stretch - take time every day to stretch your calf muscles and feet.

By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe
Photographs by Waruna Wanniarachchi