The latest magazines show models wearing flat shoes or platform shoes that consumers think are better for your feet, but New York City podiatrist Suzanne Levine has noticed certain problems with the latest shoes, and she offers some tips before you buy shoes for your fall wardrobe. Platforms do not throw the body forward in the awkward way that traditional heels do, but they do cause many other unique problems. Platforms encourage even higher shoes. With conventional high heels, shoe designers could only make us taller by as long as our foot was from ball to heel, but with platforms, there is no limit. While this added height continues to be flattering for the legs and buttocks, with each extra inch, we increase our risk of lateral ankle sprains.
Platforms can also cause lower back pain amd iliopsoas muscle spasms.
In addition, this form of footware can lead to weight gain, since the platforms may be so high and cause so much pain that walking is not as prevalent. If you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, flats force more pressure onto the arch of the foot and thus cause more pain. Flats can also cause heel spurs by placing more pressure on the heel. Buy shoes with a slight heel and a good arch.