Wearing high heels when varicose veins are already present can worsen the condition, even though there is no direct link between heels and the onset of the disease. This was stated by Dr. Olimi Shirinbek, head of the Phlebology Center at SM-Clinic, a vascular surgeon and doctor of medical sciences, in an interview.
According to the specialist, modern evidence-based medicine does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between frequent use of high heels and the development of varicose veins in the lower extremities. However, if varicose veins have already been diagnosed, heels higher than 5 cm can significantly impair well-being.
The doctor identified three mechanisms by which high heels negatively affect the progression of varicose veins. First, wearing them disrupts the function of the so-called muscular-venous pump in the foot and calf, which greatly reduces the outflow of blood from the veins. Second, constant use of high heels increases pressure in the leg veins, leading to blood stagnation. Third, such footwear alters the biomechanics of walking: some muscles remain under constant tension, while others fail to function properly.
Dr. Shirinbek recommends choosing heels with a height between 3 and 5 cm. If it is impossible to completely avoid high heels, they should not be worn daily — it is important to alternate them with low-heeled shoes. In any case, footwear should be comfortable, hold the foot firmly without squeezing.
