On November 24th, a French design house recently introduced a high-heeled shoe that stands about 20 centimeters tall, quickly becoming a favorite among women. The designer emphasized that without a pair of high heels, a woman's style feels incomplete, as if a song is missing its most dynamic note. High heels are believed to enhance a woman’s vitality and allure, making her appear more confident and attractive.
However, the pursuit of beauty often comes with a price. From a medical perspective, high heels can cause various foot-related issues such as foot deformities, ankle sprains, arthritis, and muscle atrophy. A study by the Shandong Institute of Orthopedic Research also found that prolonged use of high heels may lead to reduced appetite and even contribute to anorexia.
Many women who regularly wear high heels experience discomfort when switching to flat shoes. Dr. Cao Jilie, director of the Orthopaedics Department at Jinan Fifth People’s Hospital, has seen many patients complaining of leg pain after wearing high heels for extended periods. He explains that the calf muscles shrink over time, leading to a condition where flat shoes feel uncomfortable and painful.
Xiao Guo, a 27-year-old manager, was one such patient. She wore high heels five days a week and suffered a twisted ankle. After being advised to switch to flat shoes, she experienced increased pain. An ultrasound revealed that her calf muscles had significantly shortened and atrophied.
According to Dr. Cao, wearing high heels for four or five days a week, especially with heels over 5.5 cm, can lead to muscle shortening within one to two years. UK researchers found that this type of muscle atrophy can reach up to 15% in some women. Once the calf muscles become shorter, it affects ankle mobility, walking speed, and overall movement, with the damage being irreversible.
This habit is similar to smoking—once you start, it becomes hard to stop. Despite knowing the health risks, many women still prefer high heels. A survey on the "Spring City Forum" showed that 78% of women wear high heels regularly, with 52% preferring heels between 6-8 cm or higher. In Jinan, high heels remain a popular choice, with many stores selling shoes ranging from 6 to 11 cm in height. Some even have heels as high as 20 cm, despite the cost.
Experts like Lv Kui suggest that high heels can make legs look slimmer and fulfill psychological desires. However, the real issue is that once the calf muscles shrink, women find it difficult to adjust to flat shoes, creating a cycle of dependency.
High heels can also cause serious health problems. A young woman once underwent surgery due to a fractured patella from wearing high heels with thin soles. Other complications include foot deformities, spinal compression, and joint issues. Additionally, poor blood circulation from tight shoes can affect the brain's feeding center, potentially contributing to anorexia.
Dr. Li Jianmin from Qilu Hospital recommends that high heels should not exceed 6 cm in height. But fashion often overrides health concerns. Many people, both men and women, actively share tips on how to wear high heels comfortably. Simple exercises like stretching the feet and ankles can help reduce pain.
To make high heels more comfortable, experts suggest using breathable socks, avoiding overly tight shoes, and properly maintaining footwear. Whether it's cleaning matte surfaces or preventing mold, there are ways to extend the life of your shoes and keep them comfortable.
In conclusion, while high heels may enhance appearance, they come with long-term health consequences. It's important to balance style with well-being, ensuring that beauty doesn't come at the expense of health.
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