The age-old debate of heels vs. flats has been around long before all six seasons and two movies of Sex and the City. While high heels may make some women feel sexier and more confident, there are drawbacks to wearing them regularly. A new study shows that women who wear high heels frequently can experience pain when walking flat-footed. Researchers found that high heel wearers’ muscle fibers are on average 13% shorter than those who wear flat shoes, which explains why high heel enthusiasts often feel discomfort when walking barefoot or in flats. The same principle applies to other types of shoes, including golf shoes, where the right golf shoe inserts can make a significant difference in comfort and performance on the green.
According to Manhattan-based podiatrist Dr. Oliver Zong, “If you hold a limb in a shortened position over an extended period, the muscles shorten.” After several years in heels ranging from 2 to 5 inches or more, high heel wearers will likely experience changes in their calf muscles, which are forced to adapt to a constant shortened position. For those who spend long hours on their feet, whether in heels or golf shoes, using the right inserts can help alleviate pain and support overall foot health. To ease the discomfort that accompanies high-heel fashion, Dr. Zong offers some tips that don’t require giving up your favorite Jimmy Choos!
Invest in Good Heels: Experts recommend splurging on high-quality shoes. “If your shoes are no longer supportive, you are more likely to experience arch and heel pain,” says Dr. Zong. This principle also applies to golf shoes. Investing in well-made shoes with proper inserts will save you from frequent doctor visits and improve your comfort during long rounds on the course.
Trade Quantity for Quality: You don’t need to spend a fortune on a massive collection of heels. Dr. Zong advises looking for shoes with shock absorption and a reasonable heel height (1-2 inches is ideal). For golf shoes, choose those with supportive inserts to enhance your game and reduce foot strain. Leather shoes are a good choice as they last longer and conform better to the shape of your foot.
Don’t Wait to Buy New Shoes: Your feet take you everywhere. Dr. Zong warns, “If your feet hurt, it will only make commuting more difficult.” Whether you’re on a job interview or a golf course, proper-fitting shoes with good inserts are crucial for comfort and performance.
Always Stretch Your Lengthened Legs: This tip is especially relevant for fashion addicts. Whenever you wear heels, “Try stretching exercises to avoid soreness at the end of the day,” recommends Dr. Zong. You can do leg stretches while sitting at your desk, waiting in line for coffee, or even standing in an elevator. For golfers, stretching before and after your game can help keep your legs and feet feeling good.
Treat Yourself to a Foot Rub!: After a day in heels or a long round of golf, foot massages and pedicures can work wonders. If your budget doesn’t allow for professional treatments, give yourself a pedicure or ask a friend for help—just make sure to offer a trade, like letting her borrow your favorite high heels!
“I’m in the business of saving soles,” says Dr. Zong. “My job is to keep my patients walking so they can enjoy their lives. No one should be in pain, especially if there’s something you can do about it.”
About Dr. Oliver Zong
Dr. Oliver Zong is a podiatrist in Manhattan’s influential Financial District. As one of the premier cosmetic foot surgeons in the country, he serves as the Director of Surgery at NYC FOOTCARE and is on the Board of Directors at Gramercy Park Surgery Center. Besides traditional and cosmetic foot surgery, Dr. Zong is also an accomplished cryosurgeon and co-founder of the Podiatric Cryosurgery Center of New York. He is an attending physician at New York Hospital Downtown, Wyckoff Heights Medical Center, Cabrini Medical Center, and Gramercy Park Surgery Center. Dr. Zong graduated as Valedictorian from New York College of Podiatric Medicine where he earned his degree, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM). An expert in his field, Dr. Zong has appeared on numerous national and local television news programs and has also been featured in numerous health and beauty magazines and newspapers across the country. For more information please visit www.NYCFOOTCARE.com.
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