Miu Miu grey patent stilettos complemented by Charles David clutch. - MCT

Strutting around in stilettos may send sex appeal ratings up a notch or two but it often takes toll on the feet, hips and back, says Dr Shane Bryan.

According to the chiropractor, high-stepping females could suffer soreness to soles, heels, toes and ankles, as well as calves.

"I don't get a lot of cases with people suffering from injuries because they wear stilettos but, from time to time, I see patients with heel pain, back pain and tarsal pain.

"What I do know happens is that high heels can and will stress the lower back," said Bryan. "This stress may change the angle of the lumbar arch and this can lead to a degeneration of the spine."

Dr Michael Harvey, a chiropractor for 29 years, supports Bryan's view.

"I haven't seen many cases where major damage is done because of high heels, but I can honestly say wearing them often can increase the lumbar arch, which will cause back pain.

"You will probably find many women who wear high heels and never have a problem. And, I suspect that some of those women who do have problems already have a pre-existing spinal condition and the postural stress from the high heels simply brings out the problem," Harvey explained.

Pregnant women are advised to shelve their spikes until after childbirth. Research shows that regular stiletto usage might affect the position of the womb, causing complications such as ligament damage and severe back pain.

"High heels worn during pregnancy affects the womb and how it sits in the body," said Bryan.

"It can cause a weakened state of the womb and placenta pervia, a condition where the placenta grows in the lowest part of the uterus and covers all or part of the opening to the cervix. All this can increase the likelihood of haemorrhaging," he added.

Prescriptions

Flatter shoes are a better bet on a day-to-day basis. They will ensure that you are comfortable and minimise strain on the back.

Keep your high heels for special occasions and holidays.

Your feet can get wider in pregnancy, so if you have a much-coveted pair of Manolos, they may stretch and not fit you afterwards.

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shaunette.jones@gleanerjm.com