Very high heels force the feet into an unnatural position that puts stress on the ball of the foot. This is the joint where the long foot bones meet the toe bones.

Too much pressure in this area can inflame these bones and the nerves that surround them. Chronic stress to the foot bones can even lead to hairline fracture.

Chibua warns people not to wear high heels beyond five centimetres. “Switching to lower heels will help you avoid problems with the bones in the foot. The lower you go, the more natural your foot position will be, he says.

The very narrow heels of stilettos are very risky according to Chibua, “Because the weight is concentrated in one area. This makes you wobble like you are walking on stilts and may result in tripping and spraining your ankle.”

An ankle sprain happens when you roll onto the outside of the foot. This stretches the ankle ligaments beyond their normal length. A severe sprain may tear the ligaments causing severe pain.

“Avoid pointed toe and ill-fitting or tight shoes, do not wear high heels for a long time but vary foot wear. Carry at least two extra pairs of flat or open shoes with you: one for driving and the other for the office or for your feet under the work desk,” she advised.

Some shoes are notorious for causing a painful knot on the back of the heel. The rigid material presses on a bony deformity leading to blisters, swelling, even pain in the Achilles tendon.

Chibua says, “Know the right shoe size you wear and since sizes vary from one manufacturer to another, get measured whenever you are buying shoes.

You may also fit in some of the shoes if the seller allows and walk around the shoe store so that you do not risk buying a tight one. Do not rationalise that the shoes will stretch with time. Find shoes that fit from the start.”

Check for anything inside the shoe that might irritate your feet or cause blisters. Examine the soles if they are sturdy enough to provide protection from sharp objects.

If you know you will be on your feet most of the day, choose supportive, comfortable shoes. It is also important to have well-fitting athletic shoes for running and aerobics.

People with diabetes also need to be very careful while buying shoes. The shoes should have a relatively long and spacious toe box made of breathable materials such as leather which allows sweat to evaporate and helps keep feet drier throughout the day.