Is Medical Tape The Solution to Remedying High Heel Pain? Maybe So.
Which is worse: trading in your new pair of heels for flats in the name of comfort, or dealing with shooting pain during your GNO. Because lets be honest, they both sound pretty terrible.
Most women have faced this age-old Catch-22 "to heels or not to heels" dilemma. But, thanks to this life hack, you no longer have to make this oh-so difficult decision.
Oh and maybe you won't end up like this:
All you need is some handy-dandy medical tape. Now, we know what you're thinking: It seems way too accessible and simple to actually save you from pain. But, apparently, it can.
Though this tip isn't entirely new, shoe designer Meghan Clearly recently spoke with WhoWhatWear to get an expert opinion on how exactly you can save your heel-wearing feet from the blisters, sharp toe pain and/or awkward arch pressure that comes with your Jimmy Choos.
She recommends walking in the shoes before wearing them to see where the rubbing pain is and then placing a piece of tape to this spot. To counteract pressure from your toes being pushed together, she suggests taping third and fourth toes together.
Why? According to her, heels put pressure on a nerve that splits between the two toes.
The big ole important question is, does it actually work? Can heels ever be 100% pain-free? Maybe.
This is hardly the first heel hack. From band-aids and an assortment of (useless) gel insoles to even injectables, women have been scouring for the perfect solution to their beautiful, but painful, high heels for years — despite the fact that heels could be dangerous to their health.
According to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery, high-heel-related injuries have doubled between 2002 and 2012. Furthermore, as ABC News reports, a 2012 study found that over time, heels can tighten and shorten the Achilles tendon, causing potential muscle spasms. In addition, they can possibly change one's center of balance.
"When you slip into a pair of high heels your feet slide forward into the shoe. The increased weight on the balls of your feet causes your pelvis to tilt forward," Dr. Emily Splichal, a podiatrist, told ABC News. "To compensate, you lean backwards, increasing the arch in your lower back, which puts a strain on your lumbar spine, hips, and knees. The higher the heels, the greater the strain."
Read more: This Is What High Heels Are Really Doing to Your Feet
Dr. Splichal recommends choosing a heel that is three inches or less, avoiding skinny stilettos and looking for softer soles.
If you still choose to wear four-inch pumps or higher, you have to face the fact that they will never be as comfortable as UGG slippers. But, at least this medical tape tip seems to be a better alternative to other BS hacks that only work for 15 minutes.
