My Love Affair with Heels in My 20s: The Cost in My 40s

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Back in my 20s and 30s, I was all about high heels—especially the sleek stilettos that made my legs appear longer and my waist slimmer. I would have rather faced anything than slip into a pair of flats. But now, as I navigate my 40s, I’m experiencing the repercussions of those fashionable choices.

They say life takes a downturn at 40; your eyes start to fail, your body begins to crack, and you discover new aches in places you never knew existed. One morning, I stepped out of bed and, as I put my second foot down, it felt like fiery nails were piercing the bottom of my foot. Standing became nearly impossible, and I could only walk on my toes. The moment my heel touched the ground, the pain was unbearable. Naturally, I called my mother for advice.

I dramatically described my predicament, and her reply was less than reassuring: “Uh oh. That doesn’t sound good.” Then she suggested I might be suffering from plantar fasciitis, a term I found unsettling. The thought of it made me grimace, and I reluctantly scheduled an appointment with her podiatrist.

Upon arriving at the clinic, I quickly realized I was the youngest patient by at least 40 years. The waiting room was filled with seniors rocking Velcro shoes, and I began to worry about my own footwear. When the doctor examined my feet, he asked about my heel-wearing habits. “Did you wear high heels before kids?” he inquired. “Um, pretty much every day,” I admitted. He then explained that my years in heels had led to my current foot issues.

After some testing, he criticized my current shoes for their lack of support and fitted me for orthotics. I had no idea such a thing existed! I visited a shoe store specializing in supportive footwear, where a pedorthist helped me find better options. Though the shoes weren’t the most stylish, they were not white or Velcro, which felt like a small victory. With the right footwear, my pain diminished significantly within weeks.

So, What Went Wrong?

According to Footdoc.org, high heels strain the foot’s arch and can lead to shortened Achilles tendons, increasing the risk of plantar fasciitis. To avoid this fate, heelthatpain.org offers some solid advice:

1. Warm Up Before Exercise: Stretching is crucial to prepare your muscles and prevent injury.
2. Invest in Quality Shoes: Opt for footwear that provides proper support and cushioning, and limit your time in high heels.
3. Accessorize Wisely: Consider orthotic inserts to enhance your existing shoes without breaking the bank.
4. Choose Soft Surfaces for Running: This reduces impact and stress on your feet.
5. Understand Your Limits: If your feet hurt, take a break and ease into new fitness routines gradually.

A daily routine of simple activities can keep your feet flexible and healthy. If you experience signs of plantar fasciitis, don’t hesitate to consult a doctor for advice on stretches or inserts. There are stylish supportive shoes available now, so you don’t have to resort to those white Velcro options—unless you want to match your grandma.

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Summary

The transition from fashionable heels in my younger years to painful foot conditions in my 40s highlights the importance of proper footwear. From plantar fasciitis to supportive shoes, it’s crucial to listen to your body as you age and make adjustments to maintain your foot health.