Gender and Social Change

The High Heel

High Heel Boots

You would think that boots and high heels aren't a good combination but that's right, they do exist. Not sure why, though. 

High Heels Can Cause Damage

This image demonstrates one of the many ways in which wearing high heels can actually damage your foot. 

Anyone who has ever worn a high hell will tell you that there is nothing comfortable about them. In fact, they are not just uncomfortable but downright painful to wear. This begs the question: why do women wear high heels? To answer that question, we first must go back in time. Shoes (and to some extent feet in general) have always been a way to display status and wealth. In ancient Greece, actors wore platform shoes in order to make them taller and seem more like the gods. In the 14th century, it was believed that pointed shoes rendered witches powerless so the upper class wore pointed shoes with such long points that they needed to wear chains attached to their knees in order to walk. In 16th century Venice, women wore platform shoes called chopines, and they were so high that the women needed help to walk in them. Even the practice of foot binding in China, where women desired a small foot, serves a similar purpose.[1] When it comes down to it, it’s all about looking more desirable. Today, women wear high heels in order to look taller, thinner, and sexier.[2] 

The high heel isn’t just uncomfortable, but it can also damage your feet. The most common injury with regards to the high heel is the ankle sprain.[3] Because your wait is pinpointed on one small area, you have compromised balance and can easily roll your ankle. Due to the unnatural position your foot is in, the added stress to the balls of your feet overtime can lead to hairline fractures.[4] The added pressure on your heel can also lead to blisters, swelling, and stress on the Achilles tendon.[5] When it comes to high heels, the phrase “no pain, no gain” rings true.