Hurting Heels? It’s Time to Lose Those Painful Shoes!

The moment your feet hit the floor in the morning, a sharp, stabbing pain shoots through your heel. You blame your morning run, a long day at work, or just “getting older.” But what if the real culprit has been hiding in plain sight, right under your nose…

Or your feet?

Many of the most common causes of heel pain, especially plantar fasciitis, are directly linked to the footwear we choose. In this blog, Lionel G. Hausman will unmask the “usual suspects” in your shoe collection, then suggest some better alternatives!

The Suspect: The Worn-Out Running Shoe (a.k.a. “The Retiree”)

They were your trusted companion for hundreds of miles. They’re molded perfectly to your foot. They’re comfortable… right?

  • The Problem: The cushioning and support in running shoes have a limited lifespan (typically 300-500 miles).
    • That once-bouncy foam has been compressed into a pancake, offering no shock absorption. Continuing to run or walk in retired athletic shoes is a direct invitation for an overuse injury.
  • The Better Alternative: Track your mileage! Make a note of when you buy a new pair of running shoes and be diligent about replacing them.

The Suspect: The Perfectly Flat Shoe (a.k.a. “The Cardboard Cutout”)

From classic ballet flats to trendy minimalist slip-ons, these shoes offer a chic look but often provide the structural integrity of a cardboard box.

  • The Problem: With a completely flat and often thin sole, these shoes force your foot to absorb 100% of the impact from hard surfaces like concrete sidewalks.
    • With no arch support, your plantar fascia is left to fend for itself, leading to strain and inflammation.
  • The Better Alternative: Look for flats that have a built-in, supportive arch and a slightly thicker, cushioned sole.

The Suspect: The Stiletto High Heel (a.k.a. “The Obvious Offender”)

This one isn’t a mystery.

Forcing your foot into an unnatural, steep angle puts massive pressure on the ball of your foot and dramatically tightens your Achilles tendon, which is directly connected to your plantar fascia. These shoes can also worsen bunions.

  • The “Harm Reduction” Tip: We know sometimes they’re unavoidable for a special event. If you must wear them, try to:
    • Limit your standing time. Sit whenever possible.
    • Stretch your calves before you put them on and after you take them off.
    • Go for a lower, chunkier heel whenever you can for better stability.

If making a change in your footwear doesn’t solve the problem, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for a professional evaluation to get to the root of the issue. Fortunately, we happen to know a great podiatrist you can call…

Got a foot problem you’d like to address? Visit Gramercy Park for an appointment with Board Certified Podiatrist Lionel G. Hausman, DPM. Whether it’s an ingrown toenail, heel pain, bunions, or plantar fasciitis, Dr. Hausman can expertly treat numerous foot and ankle conditions. If you’re in need of help, get in touch with us today!

Similar Posts