Designer and professional origami artist Kade Chan has combined traditional shoemaking methods with the 3Doodler pen to create a customized high heel shoe with a shock absorbent heel. The 3Doodler, created from a Kickstarter campaign, is a pen that can draw in 3D. Research firm Canalys is expecting the 3D printing market to grow to $16.2 billion by 2018. 3D printing proves to be the ultimate DIY market with the rapid advancements in the technology, the cost of 3D printers falling and the consumer’s desire to download and print anything they want.
High heels are very fashionable and a necessity to some, but if worn in excess can cause pain to the feet and ankles. To learn more, contact podiatrist Dr. Jeff Wachtel, D.P.M., of Wachtel Family Foot Care. Dr. Wachtel will answer all of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
What parts 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. Also, 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.
If you have any questions, please contact our office located in Lansdale, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.
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