Many of you are likely aware of the dangers of high, unstable stiletto heels (we will definitely discuss this separately). However, they are not the only culprits when it comes to damaging our feet. The most familiar and seemingly comfortable shoes can also harm the feet, joints, and overall quality of life.

How does wearing "the wrong" shoes affect health? The fact is that every part of the shoe – the sole, heel counter, toe box, arch support, etc. – influences the position of the foot. If any aspect of the footwear is not physiologically correct, it immediately affects the biomechanics of walking. The spine assumes an unnatural position, and the load on the muscles is redistributed in an unnatural way. As a result, this can lead to back and knee pain, poor posture, numbness in the legs, swelling, and a feeling of heaviness (in worse cases, it can lead to varicose veins).

You are in the "risk zone" if you choose footwear that is:

🔸 too narrow;

🔸 not your size;

🔸 with a rigid, non-flexible sole;

🔸 lacking reliable fastening;

🔸 on a heel;

🔸 with a thick platform;

🔸 with arch supports (unless you have medical indications for them).

We will discuss each of these points in more detail later.

However, even when shoes seem quite comfortable and "harmless" in appearance, it doesn't mean that your feet are truly comfortable in them. If you experience:

👉 blisters, calluses, or growths on your feet;

👉 ingrown toenails;

👉 a bunion starting to protrude;

– it’s time to reconsider your choice of shoe models.

To do this, it's crucial to understand which footwear will not cause harm and how to properly maintain foot health.