Any heel two inches or higher will force the
full weight of the body onto the smaller bones in the front
of the foot and squeeze the toes into the forepart of the shoes.
This hurt the arch, causes calluses on the sole of the foot,
and can lead to various bone deformities.
The major solution to this problem is to buy
good shoes that really fit. The shoes should be moderately broad
across the instep, have a straight inner border, and a moderately
low heel. To fit properly, shoes should extend one-half inch
to three-fourths inch beyond the longest toe.
Avoid wearing shoes that have no support. Also
if you feel you must wear high heels, only do so for short periods
of time. Extremely high heels worn constantly force the foot
forward and upset body balance. Changing heel height several
times a day will rest the feet and give the muscles in the back
of the legs a chance to return to their normal position. It¡¦s
highly desirable to wear different shoes each day, or at least
alternate two pairs. This gives the shoes a chance to dry out
completely. Dust shoes with a mild powder when removed.
Exercise your feet by trying these simple steps
recommended by leading podiatrics:
Extend the toes and flex rapidly for a minute
or two. Rotate the feet in circles at the ankles. Try picking
up a marble or pencil with your toes; this will give them agility
and strength.
Stand on a book with your toes extended over
the edge. Then curl your toes down as far as possible, grasping
the cover.
After an unusually active day, refresh the
feet with an alcohol rub. Follow this with a foot massage, squeezing
the feet between your hands. When you are tired, rest with your
feet up. Try lying down for about a half-hour with your feet
higher than your head, using pillows to prop up your legs.
Walk barefoot on uneven sandy beaches and thick
grass. This limbers up the feet and makes the toes work. Walking
anywhere is one of the best exercises for the feet if you learn
to walk properly and cultivate good posture.
Keep toes pointed ahead, and lift rather than
push the foot, letting it come down flat on the ground, placing
little weight on the heel. Your toes will come alive, and your
feet will become more active.
