Cleveland Clinic 2025 Report Links High Heels to Bunions, Hammertoes and Plantar Fasciitis

Wearing high heels regularly can cause lasting changes and injuries to feet so knowing the associated risks is the first step to protecting your long-term foot health.

Foot Pain and High Heels

High heels shift weight toward the front of the foot and squeeze toes together, leading to common problems that many people experience after wearing them regularly. According to Cleveland Clinic, “When your feet hurt, it’s usually a sign that something isn’t right—foot pain linked to shoe choice is among the most preventable health issues.”

Bunions and Toe Deformities

• Bunions are bony bumps at the base of the big toe. “Perhaps the most common foot issue associated with long-term high heel wearing is the formation of a bunion,” notes Dr. Thomas McDonald.

• Hammertoes are permanent bends in the toe joints often caused by cramped conditions inside pointed heels. “High heels increase your risk for toe deformities like bunions and hammertoe,” says podiatrist Dr. Vittori.

Heel, Arch, and Tendon Damage

• Plantar fasciitis (pain in the bottom of the heel) happens because frequent high heel wear weakens arch support and adds excess strain to the plantar fascia. “High heels leave you with a weakened arch, so your foot can’t absorb impact,” explains Associated Podiatrists.

• Achilles tendon problems develop because high heels keep the tendon shortened, leading to higher risk for tendonitis and ‘pump bumps.’ Dr. McDonald warns, “Prolonged high heel use has been linked to a shortening of the Achilles tendon.”

Nerve and Forefoot Issues

• Morton’s neuroma (nerve pinching between toes) often occurs with tight, pointed heels and is described as “feeling as if you’re standing on a pebble in your shoe”.

• Metatarsalgia causes chronic pain in the ball of the foot from constant pressure and forced alignment.

Long-Term Damage and Prevention

Other problems like blisters, calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, ankle sprains, and even arthritis are common with frequent high heel use. Research shows over 70% of women who wear high heels often experience pain or long-term impairment.

To protect your feet, experts recommend limiting heel height, choosing wider toe boxes, using orthotics, and stretching both the feet and lower legs. “High heels force the foot into a naturally unstable position. Over time, you get muscle shortening in the back of the leg and muscle lengthening in the front,” advises Dr. Tricia Turner, UNC Charlotte.

Expert Quote

“Wearing high heels can cause reversible and irreversible damage to the feet, legs and spine,” says Performance Podiatry Sydney. Remember, healthy feet lead to a healthier, more active lifestyle—so choose your footwear with care.

High heels force the foot into a naturally unstable position. Over time, you get muscle shortening in the back of the leg and muscle lengthening in the front. These changes in muscle length then can change muscle strength and cause instability,” says Dr. Tricia Turner of UNC Charlotte

More Risks and Prevention

Other common issues include blisters, calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, sprained ankles, and even arthritis. Studies show over 70% of women who frequently wear high heels experience foot pain or diminished quality of life due to periodic foot problems.

For relief, experts recommend limiting high heel wear, choosing shoes with a wider toe box, lower heel, arch support, and stretching regularly to maintain tendon flexibility.

Key takeaway: Chronic use of high heels is linked to bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, neuromas, Achilles issues, metatarsalgia, and more—altering the anatomy and health of your feet and lower legs. “All told, high heels are bad for your feet,” emphasizes Dr. Christopher Vittori