September 2023

Wearing high heels can have serious consequences for your feet and overall well-being. While they may not be the most comfortable footwear, they are occasionally a desired shoe choice. Beyond the immediate discomfort, high heels can lead to several issues including foot and ankle injuries, arthritis, and aggravation of existing foot problems. These can include bunions, hammertoes, and an altered gait. To mitigate these issues, it is important to wear high heels in moderation, stretch regularly, and consider various foot therapy practices, such as reflexology and foot soaks. Choosing more supportive footwear is the ultimate cure for high-heel troubles. If you have foot or ankle pain associated with wearing high heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, the health care expert of the feet and ankles.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. Running with flat feet may seem challenging, but with the right approach, it is entirely possible. To begin, it is important to understand your unique gait and foot biomechanics. Flat-footed runners often overpronate, which means their feet roll excessively inward during each stride. Choosing running shoes with adequate arch support and stability can help correct this issue and reduce the risk of injuries. In addition to wearing proper footwear, it is beneficial to focus on strengthening the muscles in your feet, ankles, and calves through targeted exercises. Pay attention to your running form and aim for shorter, more frequent strides to minimize impact. Gradually increase your mileage and incorporate rest days that can allow your body to adapt. Running with flat feet can be enjoyable and injury-free with the right care and attention. If you have flat feet, and would like more information about how to maximize your running experience, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Foot drop, also known as drop foot, is characterized by the difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot while walking. This condition can pose significant challenges to mobility and is often associated with an underlying cause, such as multiple sclerosis. However, foot drop can result from other neurological syndromes or even from physical damage to a nerve. Patients experiencing foot drop tend to adopt a distinctive walking pattern, resembling the act of climbing stairs. This is due to the difficulty in raising the front of the foot, which leads them to overcompensate by lifting their knee higher with each step. In addition to the primary symptom of foot drop, a range of other muscle and nerve-related challenges can further compound the difficulties posed by this condition. Managing these symptoms often requires a comprehensive approach that may include orthotic devices, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical intervention. For help in dealing with drop foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Genine Befumo, DPM from University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. 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 Monroe Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A tailor's bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a condition characterized by the formation of a bony lump on the outer side of the little toe. This condition occurs when the fifth metatarsal bone, which is the bottom bone of the little toe, enlarges or shifts outward. Although less common than big toe bunions, a tailor's bunion can still cause discomfort and pain. Symptoms of a tailor's bunion include a swollen bump on the outer side of the toe, which can become red and painful, especially when it rubs against footwear. Tailor's bunions can affect one or both feet. Factors that contribute to the development of tailor's bunions include wearing ill-fitting shoes, being genetically predisposed to structural foot abnormalities, and having loose foot ligaments. A lower-than-normal fifth metatarsal bone or tight calf muscles can also contribute to the condition.  In severe cases, surgery may be recommended. For help with a bunionette, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Genine Befumo, DPM of University Foot and Ankle Center, L.L.C. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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