According to Dr. Paul Kasdan, founder of OurFootDoctor.com ( http://www.ourfootdoctor.com ), these shoe styles create heavy pressure on bones, joints, nerves and blood vessels, resulting in discomfort while wearing the shoes and possible long-term foot health disorders. So, what can women do to maintain comfort while wearing the wedges, stilettos and kitten heels of today?
"Celebrities often set the stage for today's style trends, especially when it comes to footwear," says Dr. Kasdan, a leading podiatrist. "High heel and pointy dress shoes are a leading cause of foot disorders such as plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel or arch) in women and can lead to posture problems."
While it's not necessary to avoid these shoe styles completely, they should be worn in moderation. Dr. Kasdan, who developed OurFootDoctor.com to provide a reliable source of information on foot ailments and other medical problems, says that the number one reason for discomfort is an improper fit. In fact, a recent OurFootDoctor.com survey of 1,000 American adults revealed that 64 percent of female shoe buyers did not have their feet measured before purchasing them and continued wearing the same size shoes for several years.
"As people age, their feet widen and lengthen. In addition, dress shoe sizes are not consistent throughout styles," says Dr. Kasdan. "Therefore, feet need to be measured and shoes need to be tried on each time a purchase is made."
Dr. Kasdan offers the following tips for finding the perfect pair of shoes:
• Mind shoe material. The upper part of the shoe should be made of soft leather and the outer sole should be as thick as possible.
• Accommodate arches. Dress shoes should have a well-padded inner sole, providing support for the arch.
• Watch those heels. The height of the heel should be 3/4 to one-inch higher than the sole; anything greater will cause the foot to slide forward, creating discomfort.
• Encourage wiggle-room. It is ideal for the toe box, or area where the toes lie, to be rounded, not tapered or pointed.
• Shop in the afternoon. Feet swell as the day progresses, so it is important to try on new shoes later in the day as opposed to early.
• Try a shoe insert. For those needing the ultimate in foot protection and comfort, another option is to use a shoe insert. Ones to try include: OurFootDoctor.com's OrthoFeet Women's Bio-Sole High Heel Dress Inserts or Superfeet DressFit Inserts, which evenly support feet and relieve foot pain and pressure.