Our shoes say a lot about us. They tell people we’re professional and polished, athletic and fit, or even laidback and fun. While your shoes may show off your style, they may also leave you with pain in your feet, legs or even back, and there is nothing stylish about living in pain. Here are some of the most common shoe culprits responsible for your daily aches.
Worn Out Sneakers
When you run, you are generating a force three times your body weight every time your foot hits the ground. That force should be absorbed by your sneakers. However if your shoes are worn and outdated, your legs and feet are feeling all the stress.
Worn out sneakers can cause minor pain in the feet, legs, and back, and lead to worse conditions such as shin splints and runner’s knee. If your workout shoes have worn out soles, it may be time for a new pair. Be sure to pick a shoe with plenty of arch support and heavily cushioned soles.
High Heels
While high heels may add inches to your height and make you look slimmer, their good qualities end there. High heels have been found to cause lasting damage in the feet and legs. They can lead to painful blisters (known as “pump bump”), shin splints, hairline fractures in the feet, and ankle sprains.
For a less painful look, switch to a lower, chunkier heel. If you just can’t live without your stilettos, try using “commuter shoes”. This is any comfortable and supportive shoe, most commonly sneaker, that you wear to and from work. They are great for anyone who walks to work, and you can switch into your high heels once you get to the office.
Flip Flops
Flip flops may be the preferred shoe of beach lovers, but they should probably be left in sand. Wearing flip flops constantly can tear and inflame the plantar fascia, an important tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot.
The best alternative for beach bums is a pair of fitted flip flops that offer support. Flip flops with arches will support the natural shape of your feet, preventing wear and tear in the foot’s tissue.
Flat Shoes
While many think that ballet flats are a better alternative to high heels, they can be just as damaging to your feet. These totally flat shoes offer no arch support whatsoever for your feet. Your feet’s ligaments and tendons can overstretch and collapse, leading to painful feet problems. Ballet flats also have less cushioning than normal shoes, making walking in them even more painful.
When buying any shoe, always make sure that you are buying some with plenty of support. If your flats are hurting your feet, try adding a shoe insole for added support. This will not only give you extra arch support, it will cushion the soles of your shoes.
