đź‘  High Heels and Foot Pain: What Every Woman Should Know | FFLC

June 29 2025

High heels may be fashion-forward—but they’re not always foot-friendly. At Family Foot & Leg Center (FFLC), we see many patients who suffer from pain and injuries linked to wearing heels. While a stylish shoe can complete your outfit, it can also silently contribute to long-term foot and ankle issues.

Before you step out in those pumps or stilettos, here’s what you need to know:


🔹 The Hidden Toll of High Heels

Wearing high heels shifts your body weight forward, placing excessive pressure on the balls of your feet. It also affects your posture, alters your stride, and tightens your calves. Over time, this unnatural alignment can lead to:

  • Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
  • Bunions and hammertoes
  • Metatarsalgia (ball of foot pain)
  • Achilles tendon strain
  • Lower back and knee pain

🔹 Common Conditions We See at FFLC

Our board-certified podiatric specialists often treat high-heel-related conditions, including:

👣 Bunions & Hammertoes – Tight, narrow toe boxes can worsen deformities.
🔥 Plantar Fasciitis – One of the most common causes of heel pain.
📍 Metatarsalgia – Inflammation and pain in the front part of the foot.
⛔ Achilles Tendonitis – Especially common when switching from heels to flats.


🔹 Tips for Safer Heel Wear

You don’t have to give up heels entirely—just wear them wisely:

âś… Choose a lower heel (2 inches or less)
âś… Go for a wider, cushioned toe box
âś… Alternate with supportive flats or sneakers
âś… Stretch your calves and Achilles tendons daily
âś… Use custom orthotics for added support


🔹 When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re dealing with ongoing foot or heel pain—don’t wait. Chronic high heel use can lead to long-term damage if left untreated. At FFLC, we offer:

  • Gait evaluations
  • In-office digital imaging
  • Custom orthotics and shoe recommendations
  • Minimally invasive treatment options
  • Non-surgical and surgical solutions

Walk Tall—Without the Pain

At Family Foot & Leg Center, we combine advanced technology with compassionate care to get you back on your feet—pain-free and stylishly smart.

📍 9 Convenient SWFL Locations
🦶 Same-Day Appointments Available
📞 Call (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) to schedule your appointment.


FFLC | Where Your Feet Come First.

#FootPainRelief #HighHeels #PodiatristNaples #FFLC #BunionRelief #PlantarFasciitisHelp #NaplesFL #HeelSmart

Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies.

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