At Podiatry Center of New Jersey, we understand that many people prioritize style over support when it comes to their choice of shoe. However, since some choices may lead to pain and long-term damage, we recommend that patients take a second look at their closet to see what tweaks can be made in favor of more supportive options.

We want to make sure our patients make informed choices when it comes to their footwear, and this blog post will help get you stepping in the right direction by identifying the top three worst shoe choices for your feet.

High Heels

  • High heels look nice but don’t make your feet feel so pretty. When people walk, their heels are meant to hit the ground first, and with heels, extra pressure is added to the balls of the foot.
  • The restrictive natures of high heels, along with added pressure, can cause joint misalignment, leading to a variety of foot deformities, including bunions.
  • Heels can also restrict blood circulation, causing pain and swelling.

Sandals

  • The lack of arch support and shock absorption can lead to swollen feet and painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis or stress fractures.
  • When wearing sandals, it’s common for the toes to bend in order to gain a better grip when walking, which can lead to tendonitis.
  • Cracked heels are more common when wearing sandals, and these cracks can turn into deeper fissures if not addressed, increasing the risk of infection.

Flat Shoes

  • Frequently wearing flat shoes can lead to a condition called Achilles tendinopathy, where a lack of arch support can add pressure to the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
  • Similarly to sandals, the lack of shock absorption and proper cushion in flat shoes leads to a greater impact on the joints.
  • Flat shoes mean less support along the soles of the feet, exposing them to higher amounts of friction, which can lead to pain and blisters.

Making informed choices about your footwear is crucial for the overall well-being of your feet, and the expert team at Podiatry Center of New Jersey is always happy to help get you stepping in a more comfortable direction when it comes to your footwear. Give us a call at (973) 925-4111 or make an appointment online today.