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 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.
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. McAndrews 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 center of gravity.
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.
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.
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.
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 the following 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 center 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 judgment.
By following simple suggestions, being fashionable can be
comfortable.
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