The Cannes Film Festival has recently been reported prohibiting women wearing flat shoes from participating in the festivities. Although the festival located in France has been notoriously formal, many women opt out of wearing high heels because medically, their feet cannot handle the discomfort high heels cause. Additionally there is no mention of high heels being a priority anywhere on the dress code located on the festival’s website. Many took to twitter to discuss the news when writer Caitlin Moran stated, “Utterly extraordinary it’s reported that women – including those with disabilities – are being turned away at Cannes for not wearing heels.”
High heels can cause a ton of foot problems and some women just cannot wear them. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Jon M. Sherman of Kentlands Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts my body will be affected by high heels?
- Ankle Joints
- Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
- Balls of the Feet
- Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
- Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoe
- Bunions
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Plantar Fasciitis
How can I still wear high heels and maintain foot health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gaithersberg, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about the effects of high heels.