Today's Fashion Can Be Tomorrow's Pain
Looking your best might not always be the best thing for you.
Today's society is extremely fashion and style conscious.
Unfortunately, clothing designers and stylists aim to please by
creating unique looks that might not always be practical or even
comfortable.
The look of the season shows runway models in high platform heels
and tight skirts or pants. Models have perfected the runway "walk,"
but the popular looks and accessories are frequently impractical and
could create leg, back, and spine or neck problems. "Sometimes I see
a woman walking down the street with high heels and a two-ton bag,
and I want to stop her and make her aware of what she is doing to
her body," said ACA president Dr. Richard Brassard.
Women generally wear high heels to complement an outfit, not for
comfort, but some might not realize that these shoes can cause
serious discomfort in the feet and can also exacerbate back pain.
High heels alter the balanced position of a person's body. When a
woman wears high heels, a new dynamic equilibrium occurs.
Dr. Brassard compared the musculoskeletal system to a mobile,
hanging in dynamic equilibrium, each part balancing the other. If
one part becomes 'fixed,' the whole system will compensate with a
movement or restriction. Essentially, wearing high heels for any
length of time increases the normal forward curve of the back and
causes the pelvis to tip forward. This alters the normal
configuration of the pelvis and spine necessary for the body to
maintain a centre of gravity.
"The legs are the foundation of the musculoskeletal system, and a
person standing flat-footed or bare-footed would be completely
balanced," said Dr. Brassard. "While standing, the hamstrings are
taut and both parts of the pelvis are stabilized so that the support
is normal. By bringing the heel up, you encourage the shortness of
the hamstring muscles."
Women and men alike fall into the fashion trap. However, women,
more than men, tend to wear clothes that are too tight. Stylish
tight tube skirts and tight pants can be attractive, but are often
too restrictive. Clothes that are too tight throw a person
off-balance, and simple everyday tasks such as bending, sitting and
walking become difficult. "Tight clothes restrict a person from
moving comfortably, resulting in poor posture and misalignment of
the spine," said Dr. Brassard.
Another unhealthy fashion statement is the use of heavy purses,
backpacks and handbags. Women and men tend to carry too many items
in one bag, or briefcase, and are often not aware of the potential
health risks associated with toting an excessive amount of "stuff."
Carrying a bag with detectable weight-more than 10 percent of your
body weight-can cause improper balance. When hiked over one
shoulder, it interferes with the natural movement of the upper and
lower body. "The person carrying the bag will hike one shoulder to
subconsciously guard against the weight, holding the other shoulder
immobile," said Dr. Brassard. "This results in the unnatural
counterbalance movement of one shoulder and little control over the
movements of the arms and legs. Even worse, the spine curves toward
the shoulder."
More and more people carry their credit cards, ATM cards and
personal identification in the back pocket of their pants. This
might be a convenient way of carrying the necessary items with you
each day, but carrying your wallet in the back pocket of your pants
can cause discomfort. Dr. Brassard suggested men and women remove
their wallets or other items before sitting for long periods of
time. "Sitting on your wallet or card holder for the entire day will
create a pocket in the muscle lying underneath the wallet, and
whether your pants are tight or loose-fitting, this can result in
discomfort or pain."
In today's society, it might be important to you to look
fashionable, but it is more important to choose clothes, shoes and
bags that are comfortable and that suit your style. By following and
remembering these simple steps, it is possible to look and feel your
best.
- Choose comfortable shoes. If you must wear high heels, bring
a pair of flat shoes along with you to change into should you
become uncomfortable. If you walk to work, wear flat shoes and
change into your more fashionable shoes when you arrive to
alleviate any pain or discomfort.
- If the shoe is uncomfortable while standing, chances are it
will not be any more comfortable while walking. The wrong shoe
can affect the body's centre of gravity.
- Choose supportive shoes. Designer spikes or non-supportive
loafers may look nice but do not allow for easy, symmetrical
walking.
- While sitting, whether or not you are wearing heels, it is
important to take frequent stretch breaks to alleviate atrophy
of the hamstring muscles.
- Avoid excessive wear of tight pants or clothing. If you
prefer tighter clothes, choose styles that allow you to perform
daily tasks with ease.
- Select a briefcase or purse with a wide adjustable strap.
Ideally, the strap should be long enough to place over the head.
This evenly distributes the bulk of the weight across the body.
- When carrying a bag, or briefcase, switch sides frequently
to avoid placing the burden of the weight on one side of your
body.
- Take the time to empty unnecessary items from your bag.
- Place all necessary items-such as wallets and cellular
phones-in the front pockets of the bag. Stretching around to
reach for your wallet can result in a pulled neck or back.
- If you are driving or sitting for long periods of time,
remove your wallet or card holder from the back pocket of your
pants.
- Think about your daily tasks. If your clothes affect your
movements, consider outfits that fit your lifestyle.
Designers and stylists tend to be more concerned about the way
something looks rather than the way it feels. Listen to your body.
One of the most important aspects of being in style and looking your
best is to maintain healthy judgement. By following simple
suggestions, being fashionable can be comfortable. |
