High heel shoes may be the fashion now, but they can become problematic for the people that wear them. The shoes are stylish; they give the wearer added height and elongate the leg. However, many problems can arise from being the wearer of these shoes.
The Achilles tendon shortens and tightens up when the front of the foot becomes lower than the heel. Achilles tendonitis may develop. Calf cramps can also occur. This is because the calf muscles (either the gastrocnemius or the soleus) contract to adjust for the angle created from an elevated heel.
The knee is also affected. Walking in high heels puts excessive force on the medial side of the knee. The low back is affected as well. Additional effort is required to sustain upright balance because high-heeled shoes throw the entire weight of the wearer forward. Extra muscular effort is needed to keep from falling forward. This effort is concentrated in the lower back, producing an exaggerated arch, which can contribute to back pain.
If one must wear high heels, wear them only for special occasions and for short periods of time. Your feet and your body will thank you.