Wearing high heels places the feet in an unnatural position that forces extra pressure on the forefoot and alters balance. This design pushes the toes together, leading to common conditions such as hammertoe, bunions, and corns. Over time, the unnatural alignment can also strain ligaments and joints, causing pain and difficulty walking comfortably. These issues can become progressive if not addressed early. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, provide custom orthotics, recommend footwear modifications, and offer treatments to relieve pain and prevent long-term damage. If you experience foot pain from wearing high heels, it is recommended that you consult a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat various foot conditions and provide guidance on more suitable shoes for better foot health.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot drop is a condition that causes difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, resulting in dragging or slapping the foot while walking. This can lead to an abnormal gait and increase the risk of tripping or falling. Common symptoms include weakness or paralysis of the muscles that lift the foot, numbness, tingling, or a heavy feeling in the affected leg. Causes of foot drop include nerve injury, muscle disorders, stroke, or compression of the peroneal nerve near the knee. The foot may appear to drag or drop when lifted, and individuals may raise their knee higher than normal to avoid tripping. A podiatrist can diagnose foot drop by assessing muscle strength, nerve function, and walking patterns. Treatment options may include targeted exercises, bracing, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain in women can develop from a variety of unique factors. Wearing high heels often places the foot in an unnatural position, creating strain on the toes and forefoot. Pregnancy and hormonal changes can cause swelling, ligament laxity, and arch problems. Conditions such as osteoporosis increase the risk of fractures, while bunions and rheumatoid arthritis may cause chronic pain and deformity. These issues not only affect mobility, but also overall quality of life. A podiatrist can provide specialized care, from footwear advice to customized treatments. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical condition that is known as cracked heels can often cause discomfort, and in severe cases, it may be unsightly. It occurs when the skin splits, forming cracks. Deep cracks are known as fissures. Common reasons for this to occur can include standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, or wearing shoes that have an open back. Additionally, specific medical conditions can cause this condition, including psoriasis, diabetes, and circulation issues. Patients who are overweight may notice cracked heels developing, and this may be a result of the added weight that the feet endure. Relief may be found when shoes that have a back are worn, and it can help to soak the feet in warm water. It is beneficial to exfoliate the heels, followed by applying a good moisturizer. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Mack Jay Groves IV, DPM from Practice. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Covington, LA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.