Christmas and New Year is fast approaching and many of us will be gearing up for the party season. You may not be suprised to read that in December and early January, Mill Court Clinic is often inundated with female patients complaining of aching feet, knees and low backs often as a consequence of the unaccustomed wearing of high heels.

Although many women would put up with any amount of discomfort to wear their new Jimmy Choos, there are a few things to bear in mind to allow you to enjoy the occasion and help minimise any potential aches and pains.

Firstly, what happens to your feet and posture as a result of wearing those high heels?

As a result of the extra heel height the front of the foot takes much more pressure and the toes often become a little compressed. One way of minimising this is to insert a specially designed gel pad under the balls of the feet which will dramatically improve your comfort levels (available from most foot comfort shops and mail order)

Also as a result of the extra heel height your body weight is thrown forward slightly, encouraging a tendency to compensate by bending the knees slightly and arching your lower back. In addition calf muscles will become very tight with prolonged wearing of heels over 2 inches.

TIPS TO HELP
If you are only an occasional or inexperienced high heel wearer you will find it quite challenging to walk any distance, dance, other than on the spot , or run. The main thing to remember is to hold your head up, look forward not down and try to keep the knees as straight as possible whilst avoiding arching your back by tucking your pelvis in slightly.

After a long period of wearing heels, when you return home, try to remember to gently stretch your calf muscles: in bare feet stand with one foot forward and one back about 3 feet apart. Bend the front knee slightly and straighten your rear leg, then gently push the rear heel down towards the floor until you feel a mild stretch in the calf. Hold for 5 seconds, relax and slowly repeat 10 times. If your in the mood, and able to remember it, a cold foot bath for 3 minutes works wonders!
If problems persist please do consult a professional for further advice
Finally remember not to stand in any one position for too long, and slyly slip off your shoes every now and again when sitting.