Any experience of this

[highestheels]

Just looked at the Andrews Heels Site and the discussion for high heels.

Quote:

They tone calf and thigh muscles

Jason Henry, a London-based fitness trainer, says walking in heels alters your centre of gravity, training your legs to produce muscle, especially in the calves and thighs.

'Essentially, in heels, you are doing what amounts to a full day of calf raises, adding definition to the shape of your legs,' he says.

'However, the excessive wearing of heels can permanently shorten your calf muscles. To avoid strain, you shouldn't walk more then two miles at a time in heels, and you should keep heel height to under two inches.'

They improve circulation in the legs

For people who suffer poor circulation and are prone to swollen ankles, a shoe with a slight heel (around 1in) can boost the amount of blood and tissue fluid that is returned from the legs to the upper body.

'Blood and tissue fluid is returned to the heart through veins, which are squeezed and stimulated by surrounding muscle,' explains osteopath Gavin Burt. 'Heeled shoes stimulate this system by tightening leg muscles, so may be good for those with a sluggish circulation.'

They may ease low-back problems

Back specialists argue that modest heels (about 11/2in) can improve alignment of the lower back, reducing the risk of low back pain. 'Some people have a spine that is, literally, too straight,' says independent massage therapist Jan Fielding. 'They lack a natural curve in the low back, causing muscular tension and pain. For these people, wearing heels can restore a healthy curve and so ease tension.'

Sorry about the copy but could not see how to pinpoint the page!

Does anyone know whether these claims are true or false? Or had any experience.

Not sure whether this is the right place to put this but I feel it is a general chat matter.

I must admit my calves are always very tight when i have spent a whole day in my stilettoes and it feels just as good as going to the gym!!!

I had knee recon surgery 10 years ago and it was always a problem even after extensive physio and weight training, but wearing high heels has eased the problem and now after two years my physio cannot believe the change. (She doesn't know about the heels!!)

[roniheels]

I have worked out constanly for years and with very,very high arches, wearing high heels is more comfortable on my feet and body. There are two schools of thought. I've always heard wearing high heels is bad for your knees. But I have also heard that they help strengthen your legs. I think it depends on the individual.

[Smitty55]

I've also had back pain for a few years--since a car accident (rear-ended) and have been told that shoe lifts may provide relief. I just wore my heeled boots more often--and the stiffness and pain did go away.