Looking your best might not always be the best thing for you. Today’s society is extremely fashion and style conscious. Unfortunately, shoe designers and stylists aim to please by creating unique looks that might not always be practical or even comfortable.
The look of the season shows runway models in high platform heels and tight skirts or pants. Models have perfected the runway “walk,” but the popular looks and accessories are frequently impractical and could create leg, back, and spine problems.
Women generally wear high heels to complement an outfit, not for comfort, but some might not realize that these shoes can cause serious discomfort in the feet and can also exacerbate back pain.
High heels alter the balanced position of a person’s body. When a woman wears high heels, a new dynamic equilibrium occurs. Essentially, wearing high heels for any length of time increases the normal forward curve of the back and causes the pelvis to tip forward. This alters the normal configuration of the pelvis and spine necessary for the body to maintain a centre of gravity.
The legs are the foundation of the musculoskeletal system, and a person standing flat-footed or bare-footed would be completely balanced. While standing, the hamstrings are taut and both parts of the pelvis are stabilized so that the support is normal. By bringing the heel up, you encourage the shortness of the hamstring muscles.
Women and men alike fall into the fashion trap. However, women, more than men, tend to wear shoes that are too high. Shoes that are too high throw a person off-balance, and simple everyday tasks such as bending, sitting and walking become difficult.
In today’s society, it might be important to you to look fashionable, but it is more important to choose shoes that are comfortable and that suit your style. By following and remembering these simple steps, it is possible to look and feel your best.
- Choose comfortable shoes. If you must wear high heels, bring a pair of flat shoes along with you to change into should you become uncomfortable. If you walk to work, wear flat shoes and change into your more fashionable shoes when you arrive to alleviate any pain or discomfort.
- If the shoe is uncomfortable while standing, chances are it will not be any more comfortable while walking. The wrong shoe can affect the body’s centre of gravity.
- Choose supportive shoes. Designer spikes or non-supportive loafers may look nice but do not allow for easy, symmetrical walking.
- While sitting, whether or not you are wearing heels, it is important to take frequent stretch breaks to alleviate atrophy of the hamstring muscles.
Designers and stylists tend to be more concerned about the way something looks rather than the way it feels. Listen to your body. One of the most important aspects of being in style and looking your best is to maintain healthy judgement. By following simple suggestions, being fashionable can be comfortable.
