How Platform Shoes Can Affect Your Feet
Platform shoes have been a fashion statement for decades, from the disco era in the 70s to the recent resurgence in popularity. However, wearing platform shoes can have negative effects on your foot health. Here are some common foot problems that can occur from wearing platform shoes.
Ankle Sprains
Platform shoes provide an elevated sole that can throw off your balance and make you more susceptible to ankle sprains. The higher the platform, the greater the risk. Ankle sprains occur when your ankle rolls or twists awkwardly, causing damage to the ligaments. This can happen when you walk or dance in platform shoes, especially if you’re not used to wearing them.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot. It’s commonly associated with high heels and platform shoes. The elevated sole of the platform shoe puts pressure on the metatarsal bones in your foot, which can cause pain and discomfort. This condition is more likely to occur if you wear platform shoes for long periods of time.
Back Pain
Platform shoes can also cause back pain, especially if the platform is too high. This is because the elevated sole alters your natural posture, causing you to lean forward. This puts extra pressure on your lower back, which can result in pain and discomfort. In addition, the lack of support in platform shoes can cause your back muscles to work harder to maintain your balance.
Bunions
Bunions are bony bumps that develop on the joint at the base of your big toe. They’re often caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or that have a narrow toe box. Platform shoes can also contribute to the development of bunions because they push your toes together in the front of the shoe. Over time, this can cause your big toe to shift out of place and form a bunion.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. Platform shoes can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis because they don’t provide enough arch support. This puts extra strain on the plantar fascia, which can cause it to become inflamed and painful.
