Is it better for patients with varicose veins to wear high heels or flat shoes?
Apr 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Jianbin
Introduction
Patients with varicose veins should generally wear flat shoes. When wearing high heels, the area of the foot in contact with the ground is smaller, causing body weight to concentrate mostly on the forefoot, which can lead to excessive tension in the foot and leg muscles, increase pressure on blood vessels, and worsen the condition. Flat shoes provide a larger weight-bearing surface, promote whole-body blood circulation, reduce blood stasis, and help prevent the condition from worsening.
Patients with varicose veins are generally advised to wear flat shoes, as this helps improve blood circulation. It is recommended to avoid wearing high heels frequently and to seek timely medical treatment.
When wearing high heels, the surface area of the foot in contact with the ground is smaller, concentrating most of the body's weight on the forefoot. This can lead to excessive tension in the muscles of the feet and legs, increase pressure on blood vessels, impair blood return, and worsen the condition. Flat shoes not only improve body balance but also distribute weight over a larger surface area, promoting overall circulation, reducing blood stasis, and helping prevent disease progression.
Although flat shoes are preferable, patients should still avoid prolonged standing, walking, or strenuous physical activity.
