Heels can cause health problems
New research released today has revealed that women could be causing themselves an injury, thanks to the amount of items they carry in their bags.
According to the study by Nurofen, who worked with Medical Expert Dr Rosemary Leonard, the average lady carries seven items in her bag weighing nearly half a stone, which could potentially lead to life-long pressure on the body.
Well ladies, we're used to suffering to look good, but are we really prepared to put our health at risk all in the name of fashion?
The study of over 1,000 women aims to highlight the potential pain-problems women are risking by carrying big bags, and wearing sky high heels in order to look on-trend.
It also seeks to show the long term damage caused by being a fashion victim. Whilst looking good and keeping up with the catwalk is a happy pastime for lots of women, further findings from the research may make them think twice in future.
Over 56% are often in pain when carrying their big bags, with almost a quarter admitting it happens every time they throw one over their shoulder.
The top three pain hot-spots are, shoulder (68% of women), neck (35% of women) and arm (28% of women).
As well as a wallet, keys and mobile phone being carted around in today’s holdalls, almost one in ten think they regularly throw another 12 bits, and pieces into their bulging bags! Other items to make up the top ten were:
-Make up bag
-Umbrella
-Camera
-Diary
-Book
-iPod
-Hairbrush
With celebrities such as Victoria Beckham and Gwyneth Paltrow sporting sky high heels at the moment, the findings come at a time when ordinary ladies are following this trend.
Over half (51%) of women wearing heels at least two to three times a week, it’s worrying that two thirds (66%) are in pain wearing them, with one in five admitting to feeling aches every time they slip them on. The top three hot-spots in addition to feet, are ankles, calves and the lower back.
What’s also concerning is that almost one in five said that while they worry about causing potential long term damage, they won’t stop carrying heavy bags or wearing killer heels, not least because it makes them feel good. Over half (56%), of women are sticking to their heels for the feeling of confidence they get from wearing them.
Medical Expert, Dr Rosemary Leonard, says, "I’m quite shocked to discover how many women are suffering for fashion - forget weight gain, this is more like weight strain!
"The painful areas mentioned can be due to a number of things such as pressure on the joints, leading to inflammation, or muscle, tendon or ligament damage. This could lead to long term problems if not tackled appropriately."
"In the case of muscle, tendon or ligament pain, applying ice and resting the limb as much as possible is important, while for lower back pain, gentle exercise such as swimming, walking or cycling is advised.
"For a short term solution, taking a pain relief tablet that will ease muscle pain and reduce inflammation is also an option, or if the pain continues, a visit to your GP is always recommended."
Tagged in Health