Women in America seem to be obsessed with high heels. No matter how much they hurt their feet, they keep buying more and more, high and higher high heels. High fashion seems to dictate sense over sensibility. So, how high is too high?

Some heels are now towering over five or six inches high. No wonder some women are now reporting that they are ditching their high heels. A recent survey reports that 72% of women are quitting the high heel addiction because they hurt their feet.

When heels go over two inches it changes the way you walk. Over three inches can put over seven times the pressure on the ball of the foot. Feet are not designed to take that much pressure.

At the other extreme is the flat shoe which is also quite fashionable. They appear to be more sensible, but Dr. Suzanne Levine, a podiatrist from the fashion capital New York City, explained recently on the Today Show that is not necessarily the case. Flat shoes can be a risky style when it comes to your feet for a variety of reasons. Flats provide no arch support, there’s no cushioning under the balls of the feet, and the arch is actually collapsing. Flat shoe wearers can end up with knee problems, hip problems, and back problems. Moderation is the key. Also, exercising your toes can be helpful. Try picking up marbles or a pencil with your toes.

Lastly, listen to your feet. If you are experiencing foot pain, it’s an indication that something is wrong with your feet. That’s when it’s time to make an appointment with one of the doctors at American Foot and Leg Specialists. They know you want to be fashionable, as well as, pain free. They can provide you with sensible suggestions and still keep you stylish.