Are women at risk by wearing high heels?

By: Katie Smith - 14 June 2011 15:00

Many women struggle to walk in high heels on a night out but others opt to wear flat shoes, which could be the safer option, according to recent research.

Between 13-16 May this year, the research was conducted online on behalf of The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists by One Poll amongst a sample of 2,000 men and women.

Wearing high heels regularly increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis, the research revealed. A quarter of UK women admit to walking in them on a daily or frequent basis. High heeled shoes alters body posture and increases pressure on the foot, ankle and knee joints.

"For daily wear, the recommendation is to opt for a round toed shoe with a heel height of no more than 2-3cm and with a shock absorbent sole to help minimise shock to the joints," said podiatrist and arthritis researcher from The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, Professor Anthony Redmond.

Research also found that over three-quarters (77%) of the participants admitted to not wearing footwear designed for the sport or fitness activity they participate in, running the risk of increased stresses and strains and developing injury and arthritis.

With over a third (36%) of people having a lack of knowledge about arthritis, people are not getting treatment for the condition, The Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists said.

Maybe we should think about which shoes we want to wear before we go out, and not just whether the colour matches.