What Shoes Are REALLY Doing to Our Bodies

Photo by: Illustrated by Zhang Qingyun

The Ballet Flat - There's a reason why flats are so popular. They offer basic support, more balance and less strain on the lower leg. For everyday use, they're a fairly safe bet, but there may be a downside to your "sensible" shoes. As Dr. Novella explains, devoted heel lovers can actually feel uncomfortable when they suddenly slip into flats all day. "People who are used to heels can experience plantar ... more 

Photo by: Illustrated by Zhang Qingyun

The Ballet Flat - There's a reason why flats are so popular. They offer basic support, more balance and less strain on the lower leg. For everyday use, they're a fairly safe bet, but there may be a downside to your "sensible" shoes. As Dr. Novella explains, devoted heel lovers can actually feel uncomfortable when they suddenly slip into flats all day. "People who are used to heels can experience plantar fasciitis or strain of the band, which supports the arch," he said. And, because of the shape of the shoe, toe movement may be restricted, causing pressure on the sides of the foot and eventually could lead to bunions.

One solution is to choose a wide toe-box flat that will prevent any toe crunching, or simply being more aware of toe restraint. A few cushioned flats to throw on whenever your don't need to wear something fancy can certainly help, as well. less