Actress Chucks her Heels during Awards Presentation

Actress Chucks her Heels during Awards Presentation

emma thompson shoesActress Emma Thompson’s big moment at the Golden Globes came when she walked on stage to present an award with her high heels in her hands. Thompson, who has been vocal about her dislike for heels as of late, tossed them over her shoulder, and then presented the Globe for best screenwriting.

She also replicated the act in similar fashion by ditching her fancy shoes and going around barefoot at the National Board of Review awards. "I've taken my heels off as a feminist statement really, because why do we wear them?” she said. They're so painful. And pointless, really.”

High heels are constrictive and can have detrimental health effects if worn for too long. If you have questions about how harmful these shoes are, talk to podiatrist Dr. Alan Discont of Family Foot and Ankle Care, PC Dr. Discont can tell you all about the kinds of nerve and bone damage high heels can cause.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity.  Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts my body will be affected by high heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?

 If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Chandler, AZ. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to fit your needs.

Read more about the Effects of High Heels.