The Worst Shoes for Your Feet

Culprit: Ultra-High Heels

"Heels are getting higher and higher and we podiatrists like to call it shoe-icide." Brenner, a spokes for the (APMA) American Podiatric Medical Association, says ultra-high heels can lead us to everything from ankle sprains to pain.  Let's take a closer look at the  styles, and woes of today's footwear.

Problem: Pump Bump

Whether they're high - mid-heel, this style is causing a painful knot on the back of the heel. The material presses on a bony deformity some women have called a "pump bump."  The pressure leads to swelling, blisters, bursitis, even pain in the Achilles.  Ice and heel pads may provide pain relief …along with better shoes..

Problem: Unnatural Foot Position

Ultra-high heels force the feet into a position that puts stress on the foot.  At this critical joint, the long metatarsal bones meet the pea-shaped sesamoid bones, and the toe bones (phalanges). Too much pressure can inflame these bones or the nerves that around  them. 

Solution: Go Low

Chronic stress to the foot Switching to lower heels will help you avoid problems with the metatarsal bones. The more you go, the more natural your foot position . Brenner recommends peek heels that are no more than 2 inches high  and even those should be worn in moderation.can even lead to hairline fractures.

Problem: Ankle Sprains

All high heels boost the risk of an ankle sprain. The problem is a lateral sprain, happens when you roll onto the outside of your foot. This stretches ligaments beyond their normal length. A sprain may tear the ligaments. A sprained ankle should be freeze and may need physical therapy to heal properly. The risk of developing osteoarthritis  go higher  with a severe sprain or fracture of the ankle.

Culprit: Stilettos

Although all high heels can cause problems, the ultra narrow heels are particularly risky on weight. "The weight is pinpointed on one area. The result is that you're more likely to trip and sprain your ankle.

Solution: Chunky Heels

A chunky heel has more surface area and distributes your weight more evenly. This create the feet much more stable when compared to stilettos or spindle heels. Although high heels can still put stress on the ball of your foot, they may lower the tripping hazard by minimizing your wobble.

Culprit: Ballet Flats

Brenner compares these dainty shoes to walking on cardboard. "There's no arch support whatsoever," . That keeps the feet from functioning optimally and can lead to hip, knee  and back problems. Poor arch support is also associated with a painful foot condition called plantar fascistic.

Solution: Orthotic Inserts

If you love the look of ballet flats, over-the-counter inserts (shown here) may help prevent mild foot pain. Heel pads can produce extra cushioning for achy heels. And orthotics can ease a whole range of foot pains and problems. Podiatrists prescribe these to provide arch support and reduce pressure on sensitive areas. Prescription from orthotics can be expensive, but are sometimes covered by insurance.

Culprit: Flip-Flops

Flip-flops offer very little Preventions. The risk of getting splinters or other foot injuries is higher when the feet are so exposed. People with diabetesis not wear flip-flops, because easy cuts and scrapes can lead to serious complications. In addition, many flip-flops provide without arch support. Like ballet flats, they can impressive plantar fasciitis and cause problems with the hips, knees,  or back.

Problem: Plantar Fasciitis

A band of tissue called the plantar fascia runs along the bottom of the foot. It pulls back on the heel when you walk and it works best with the proper arch in your foot. Walking barefoot sufficient arch support, can overstretch, inflame, or tear the plantar fascia. This condition can cause intense heel pain, and resting the feet to provides temporary relief.

Sporty, fitted sandals and other "toning shoes" are designed for a more intense workout while walking. The American Council on Exercise  (ACE) says there's no evidence to support that claim, but they have other benefits. The sole keeps your foot off the ground and away from debris. And Brenner points that, "they do have really good arch support." Several have a official seal of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Culprit: Platform Shoes

Platform shoes and wedges tend to have rigid foot beds. "That throws down the biomechanics of walking," Brenner says. "Your foot is trying to bend a firm way, but the shoe is fighting you because it's so rigid." If the heel is much higher than the toe area, the shoe also gets pressure on the metatarsal bones.

Better: Flatter Platforms

Although still not recommended, a flatter platform shoe may put less strain on your feet than its peers. Look for a mid wedge or platform that is nearly parallel with the ground. This will shorten the pressure on the ball of the foot. However, the sole remains a barrier to the natural walking motion.
Culprit: Pointy Toes

They might be stylish, but shoes with pointy toes squeeze the entire front of your foot together. After time, this can cause  pain, bunions, blisters, and hammertoes. Some women  develop bruises under their toenails from the constant pressure.

Problem: Bunions

A bunion is a painful lump at the base of the big toe, it may cause the toe to bend un-naturally. It forms when the tissue or bone at the base joint gets dis-placed. This may happen several years of abnormal pressure and movement. Pointy-toed shoes are a  factor, which explains the prevalence of bunions among women.

Problem: Toe Deformities

High heeled shoes push too much body weight toward the toes and then squeeze them together. Over time, the result can be hammertoe (early stage, lower right), un-normal bends in the toe joints that can gradually become rigid. Surgery is needed to relieve the pain of severe hammertoe. Crowding can cause some toe deformities, along with shoe friction, leading to painful corns and calluses.

Solution: Wide Toe Box

You can avoid the pointy toe perils by selecting boxier shoes. If that style will not appeal to you, take look for shoes that slope to a point beyond the edge of your toes. A nice style won't pinch the tips or sides of your toes. We suggests choosing a softer material, rather than leather.

Culprit: Celebrity Trendsetters

Lady Gaga is known for her eccentric style, but you may want to think before stepping into the heel-less shoes she favors. The  mega-heels seen in her "Bad Romance" video are equally risky. As we've seen, putting stress on the ball of your foot can cause bone and nerve damage and pain.

Solution: Performance Pumps

Many women are unwilling to trade style for comfort, but you may not choose between the two. Performance offer a sound compromise, taking fashion and your health into consideration. They are made typically with reinforced heels, athletic shoe construction, and more  room for your toes.

Culprit: Wrong Size Shoes

Nine out of 10 women are wearing shoes that are too small. The consequences aren't pretty calluses, blisters, bunions, corns, and other problems. The rubbing can irritate the joints in the foot and lead to arthritis. Research suggests many kids are also wearing the wrong shoe size, which puts them at risk for foot as they grow.

Solution: Measure Your Feet

Before buying new shoes, have a professional measure the length and width of your feet at the end of the day, while you're standing. These conditions can increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Early treatment and proper footwear may help to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on the joints of the foot.

Men's Trends

Pointy-toed shoes have crossed the gender line. This footwear carries the same risk in men as in women including hammertoes, bunions, and pain. To avoid problems, stick with a boxier toe. At office, a classic pair of oxfords or loafers may not turn heads, but your feet will thank you.

Fitness Trends: Minimalist Shoe

Newer additions to the shoe scene are minimalist shoes. They aim the natural feel and mechanics of walking barefoot.  "There's no support for your heel or arch and no shock absorption," . In addition, in some brands, the "fingers" separate the toes, interfering the natural walking position.

Fitness Trends: Rocker Bottoms

Rocker bottom shoes facilitate the push-off motion as you walk. This style help with joint pain. It's also good for people with mild foot deformities. However, it does not recommend the shoe for older people or people with medical conditions that affect balance or muscle strength.

3 Tips for Better Shoes

If you're ready to do right by your feet, Brenner offers these three tips:
*Make sure the shoe bends at the toe box, but is not too flexible.
*Make sure there is a sufficient arch support.
*Choose a chunky heel that is less than 2 inches high.