Specialist Women have a large array of different types of shoes that they can choose to wear to work. Flats, clogs, sandals, boat shoes, and, most commonly, high heels. High heels are one of the most common types of shoes that women wear to their places of employment. While working long shifts, they keep the heels on the entire time. These high heels are known to be a top cause of foot and ankle problems. Due to the high risk these heels cause, podiatrists try to warn women away from them. Podiatrists see many women every day in their offices due to these high heel induced problems. Some women assume that wider heels are less harmful and that there are tips and tricks to getting around these issues. The reality is all heels can contribute to the deterioration of the foot and can cause osteoarthritis.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of the cartilage that is located in the joint. It normally occurs in the ankle and foot joints. High heels are one of the leading causes of this condition. Other potential causes can be obesity, age, genetics, and other types of illness. When the cartilage begins to break down, the joint no longer has a cushion to rely on. This lack of cushion causes bones to begin to rub together and cause a lot of pain and suffering. This pain can then spread to the tissue that surrounds the joint and cause lasting damage.

Does Wearing Wider Heels Help?

Wider heels are not any better for your foot than narrow heels. There may be a little bit less of a chance of an ankle sprain with wider heels, but the risks are essentially the same. If you must wear heels, it is recommended to wear heels that have a heel that is 2 inches or less in height. This reduced height helps the foot stay at a more natural angle and prevents bunions, spurs, blisters, and other conditions that the foot and ankle can suffer from.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Decreased motion

Treatment

Usually, someone with osteoarthritis can only treat the symptoms. Pain medication, injections, and surgery can help assist in the lessening of the pain and suffering of the patient.

Are your feet and ankles swelling and in pain? Do you wear high heels and suffer from the symptoms listed above? It is time to see Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Dr. Joseph C. Stuto of Stuto Foot Specialist located in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Stuto will assist you in the examination and treatment of your foot and ankle condition. Call 718-624-7537 or make an appointment online today. Your foot health is our top priority.