High Heel Injuries on the decline after COVID—But Is the Trend Permanent?

The pandemic changed more than our routines—it reshaped our footwear choices. With fewer high heels in rotation, injuries linked to them declined significantly. But as normal life resumes, will this shift toward comfort and safety last? We take a look at the surprising health benefits of more comfortable footwear.

Comfort Over Couture: A Pandemic Shift

When COVID-19 lockdowns began, many of us traded office attire for sweatpants and swapped stilettos for sneakers. This shift wasn’t just about comfort—it also had a surprising side effect: a significant drop in high heel–related injuries.

According to researchers at the University of Maryland, emergency room visits for injuries linked to high heels fell from an average of 16,000 annually to just 6,300 in 2020.

High Heel Hazards: More Than Just a Misstep

Common injuries linked to high heels include:

• Often caused by catching or breaking a heel.
• Repeated pressure on foot and leg muscles.
• Risk increased due to heel elevation.
• The most common injury type, made worse by lack of rest.
• Ranging from back pain to concussions and lacerations.

The Canadian Podiatric Medical Association and the Pedorthic Association of Canada both stress that poor shoe structure and narrow fit can lead to chronic issues such as bunions, nerve damage, and severe muscle strain.

A Trend That Sticks?

Post-pandemic data suggests the decline in high heel use isn’t just a passing phase:

• Heel sales dropped 65% during Q2 of 2020 (NPD Group).
• In 2024, shoes with heels over 4 inches account for just 17% of non-flat shoe sales—down from 47% in 2014.
• Fashion runways for Spring 2025 are showing little to no high-heeled footwear, according to Footwear News.

Meanwhile, two-inch mid-heels have surged in popularity, blending elegance with practicality.

Walking Toward Better Foot Health

Here’s what experts suggest if you’re not ready to give up heels entirely:

• Stick to heels 2.5 cm or lower with a solid, wide base.
• Use platformed forefeet for higher heels to cushion your step.
• Avoid narrow-toe shoes that compress the foot.
• Lower heel height by even an inch—it makes a big difference.
• Stretch your calf muscles regularly if switching between sports shoes and heels.

Looking Ahead

Researchers are now studying if the injury trend is reversing as social life returns. But whether the shift to practical shoes is temporary or long-term, one thing is clear: rethinking our footwear can reduce injury risk and improve our overall wellness.

Your health starts from the ground up. Whether you’re strutting in stilettos or strolling in sneakers, making smart choices about your footwear can help protect your long-term health. Need guidance on injury prevention or overall wellness? Speak with a healthcare provider at Orleans Family Health Clinic today.

Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.