Formal pump heel height affects the external force exerted on the foot during normal walking

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Podiatry
• Ergonomics

Background:

• High heel use is linked to common foot issues like hallux valgus, flat feet, and calluses.
• Understanding the biomechanical forces is crucial for preventing these problems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between external forces and the development of shoe sores and calluses in women wearing formal heel shoes.
• To determine how different heel heights affect forefoot and heel pressure distribution.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the ShokacChip sensor to measure external forces on the metatarsal heads and heel center.
• Participants walked in formal pumps with four heel heights: 10mm, 30mm, 55mm, and 80mm.
• Collected data from 33 women, analyzing normal and shear stress patterns.

Main Results:

• Increased heel height significantly elevated normal stress (pressure) on the medial (inside) forefoot while decreasing it on the lateral (outside).
• Shear stress did not show a consistent proportional increase or decrease with rising heel height.
• The forefoot stress index (SPR-i) associated with callus formation was lowest at a 30mm heel height.

Conclusions:

• Higher heels concentrate pressure on the inner forefoot, increasing the risk of foot problems.
• A 30mm heel height appears to minimize forefoot stress, potentially reducing callus formation.
• Findings can inform footwear selection to mitigate foot issues in women who wear high heels.