It happens every holiday season: someone treats themselves to a new pair of heels for a work party, has a great night, and wakes up the next morning barely able to get out of bed.
A Patient's Story: One Night in Heels, One Week of Back Pain
One of our patients, a school teacher who's on her feet most of the day and usually wears flat shoes to stay comfortable, decided to treat herself to a new pair of stilettos for her office holiday party. The heels finished off her outfit perfectly, but the next morning she woke up in so much pain that her husband had to help lift her out of bed and help her put her shoes on. The ache in her back lingered for a full week, making even driving difficult.
Why Heels Are So Hard on Your Back
Wearing high heels increases the pressure through your back by roughly 25 times compared to a flat, cushioned shoe. They also change the way you walk and can push your posture out of alignment, both of which add strain to your lower back. Add in a night of dancing, and you're putting that same increased pressure through your back with every step.
A Simple Swap That Makes a Difference
Choosing a soft, cushioned, well-fitted flat instead of heels can cut that pressure on your lower back dramatically. Heels might complete the outfit, but it's worth asking whether the look is worth a week of back pain afterward.
When to See a Physical Therapist
If a night out has left you with back pain that isn't easing up on its own, it's worth having it looked at rather than waiting it out. Our therapists at Empower Physical Therapy & Wellness can evaluate what's going on and help you get back to feeling like yourself — heels optional.
