Looking your best might not always be the best thing for you. Today’s society is extremely fashion and style conscious. Unfortunately, clothing designers and stylists aim to please by creating unique looks that might not always be practical or even comfortable.
The look of the season shows runway models in high platform heels and tight skirts or pants. Models have perfected the runway “walk,” but the popular looks and accessories are frequently impractical and could create leg, back, and spine or neck problems. Today you will often see woman walking down the street with high heels and carrying a massive bag. These unnatural loads on the body can create serious problem down the road. I would love to stop them and explain what they are doing to their body.
Women generally wear high heels to complement an outfit, not for comfort, but some might not realize that these shoes can cause serious discomfort in the feet and can also exacerbate back pain. High heels alter the balanced position of a person’s body. When a woman wears high heels it significantly changes her center of gravity and the body responds to balance the system. Wearing high heels for any length of time increases the normal forward curve of the lower back and causes the pelvis to tilt forward. This alters the normal configuration of the pelvis and spine necessary for the body to maintain a normal center of gravity.
The legs are the foundation of body – like the foundation of a house. A person standing flat footed or bare footed would start with a balanced foundation. While standing in high heels you are bringing the heel up – like having the foundation of your house leaning to one side or the other this cause a complete change in where the forces of gravity are applied to your legs, pelvis, lower back and abdomen. The forward shifting of the pelvis to offset the position of the foot causes a significant increase on the posterior part of the lumbar discs. This can lead to premature degeneration of the lumbar spine and a significant increase in the risk for lower back problems.
Women and men alike fall into the fashion trap. However, women, more than men, tend to wear clothes that are too tight. Stylish tight tube skirts and tight pants can be attractive, but are often too restrictive. Clothes that are too tight throw a person off-balance, and simple everyday tasks such as bending, sitting and walking become more difficult. Tight clothes restrict a person from moving comfortably, resulting in poor posture and misalignment of the spine.
Another unhealthy fashion statement is the use of heavy purses, backpacks and handbags. Women and men tend to carry too many items in one bag, or briefcase, and are often not aware of the potential health risks associated with toting an excessive amount of “stuff.” Carrying a bag which weighs more than ten percent of your body weight can cause improper balance. When hiked over one shoulder, it interferes with the natural movement of the upper and lower body. The person carrying the bag will hike one shoulder to subconsciously guard against the weight, holding the other shoulder immobile. This results in the unnatural counterbalance movement of one shoulder and less control over the movements of the arms and legs. Even worse, the spine curves toward the raised shoulder.
More and more people carry their credit cards, ATM cards and personal identification in the back pocket of their pants. This might be a convenient way of carrying the necessary items with you each day, but carrying your wallet in the back pocket of your pants can cause discomfort. Men and women should remove their wallets or other items from their back pockets before sitting for long periods of time. Sitting on your wallet or card holder for the entire day will create an imbalance in the pelvis as if you have been sitting on an inclided surface. This can result in muscle splinting and abnormal spinal curvatures.
In today’s society, it might be important to you to look fashionable, but it is more important to choose clothes, shoes and bags that are comfortable and that suit your style. By following and remembering these simple steps, it is possible to look and feel your best.
- Choose comfortable shoes. If you must wear high heels, bring a pair of flat shoes along with you to change into should you become uncomfortable. If you walk to work, wear flat shoes and change into your more fashionable shoes when you arrive to alleviate any pain or discomfort.
- If the shoe is uncomfortable while standing, chances are it will not be any more comfortable while walking. The wrong shoe can affect the body’s center of gravity.
- Choose supportive shoes. Designer spikes or non-supportive loafers may look nice but do not allow for easy, symmetrical walking.
- While sitting, whether or not you are wearing heels, it is important to take frequent stretch breaks to alleviate atrophy of the hamstring muscles.
- Avoid excessive wear of tight pants or clothing. If you prefer tighter clothes, choose styles that allow you to perform daily tasks with ease.
- Select a briefcase or purse with a wide adjustable strap. Ideally, the strap should be long enough to place over the head. This evenly distributes the bulk of the weight across the body.
- When carrying a bag, or briefcase, switch sides frequently to avoid placing the burden of the weight on one side of your body.
- Take the time to empty unnecessary items from your bag.
- Place all necessary items-such as wallets and cellular phones-in the front pockets of the bag. Stretching around to reach for your wallet can result in a pulled neck or back.
- If you are driving or sitting for long periods of time, remove your wallet or card holder from the back pocket of your pants.
- Think about your daily tasks. If your clothes affect your movements, consider outfits that fit your lifestyle.
Designers and stylists tend to be more concerned about the way something looks rather than the way it feels. Listen to your body. One of the most important aspects of being in style and looking your best is to maintain healthy judgement. By following simple suggestions, being fashionable can be comfortable.
For Your Health,
Dr. Salvatore Minicozzi