Metatarsalgia: How to Ease the Discomfort

Foot pain and high heels is a very common question among women who wear them, so it needs to be addressed. In spite of this, many women continue to wear these shoes that cause them so much pain just because of aesthetics. The primary reason why wearing high heels can cause sharp foot pain is that human feet were not designed for high heels. From a shoe designer’s point of view, high heels were not designed with comfort and pain-free walking in mind either. Walking and running with ease is the main purpose of our feet. Nevertheless , wearing high heels can damage the bones and soft tissue of the foot, which can not only cause improper foot function, but also cause severe pain.

Women experience pain when they wear high heels because their feet slide forward into the shoes, inevitably forcing their bodies to redistribute their weight while creating unnatural pressure points and disrupting the natural alignment of our body. There are multiple benefits from using high heel orthotics. Orthotic shoe inserts help by supporting the foot and keeping it from sliding down.

High heels can be the culprit in a number of foot ailments. Some of the most common conditions include metatarsalgia, bunions, callous and corns, Achilles Tendonitis, hammertoe, among others.

Metatarsal pain, one of the results of wearing high heels all the time, takes place when the metatarsals drop and the ligaments weaken. This ailment causes acute pain below the toes, known as the metatarsal area. To help alleviate the pain caused by high heels, you can try wearing high heel orthotics.
Common symptoms of metatarsal foot pain are usually a burning and tingling feeling around the ball of the foot. There is often also an excessive accumulation of calluses in the same region.

Tips to Avoid Foot Pain After Wearing High-Heeled Shoes

• Stick to a consistent heel height. Wearing shoes of several different heel heights can produce swelling of the Achilles tendon.
• Buy shoes that are wide enough to comfortably fit your toes.
• Make sure to stretch before walking or strenuous exercise.
• Refrain from wearing high heels every day.
• Buy leather shoes instead of synthetics.
• Foot massages can help keep your feet feeling their best.
• Don’t buy pointed and exceedingly high heeled shoes}.
• Ensure that your feet and toenails are clean all the time.
• Buying shoes in the afternoon or at night allows a better fit.
• Wear orthotic inserts to correct foot mechanics and walk more comfortably.
• Have comfortable shoes available to you at all times.
• Opt for high heels that have chunkier heels than stilettos.
• See a podiatrist if you feel constant pain in any part of your feet.

It is important to remember that healthy feet are much more important than style and fashion for our long-term health and well-being.