Wedges are making a huge comeback - but doctor has serious warning over risks to your feet

Wedges have officially made a comeback, with the chunky shoes seen all over the high street once again.

But before you cop yourself a pair, or dust off that towering pair hiding at the back of your wardrobe, a leading podiatrist has warned that the height and design of some wedges could cause problems for your feet, joints and even your balance.

Dr Helen Branthwaite, Chief Clinical Advisor at the Royal College of Podiatry, says wearing heels can have a noticeable impact on the way we walk.

"Wearing a heel in a shoe can change the way you move," she exclusively told Tyla. "Research has shown that a heel higher than 4cm in height significantly alters the pressure in the front of your foot and also impacts the movements in the ankle, knee and hip, influencing strain on the back."

A podiatrist has warned that long-term use of wedge heels can alter the length of muscles and tendons (Getty Stock Image)

And while it's probably better than a six-inch pair of Jimmy Choos, wedges aren't necessarily exempt from those health concerns.

"A wedge shoe that goes beyond 4cm could potentially change walking and make someone less stable in balance, especially if the shoe design includes a platform at the front of the shoe increasing overall height," the expert adds.

So, while that extra height might be doing wonders for an outfit, it could make walking a whole lot trickier.

The shape of the shoe also matters as wedges tend to have a much more rigid sole than other styles of footwear, which can affect how your foot moves through each step.

Dr Branthwaite continued: "Additionally, due to the design nature of a wedge shoe, the sole is often rigid and has limited flexibility; this can alter movement and, if not shaped correctly with a rocker at the front of the shoe.

"A flat front makes a footstep forward very difficult, whereas a curve is more in line with normal movement."

Not to fret, though if you're a fan of these Y2K shoes, as a wedge is still 'preferable' over stiletto heels (Getty Stock Image)

It's not all bad news for any Y2K fanatics out there, though.

Compared with sky-high stilettos, wedges can spread force across a larger area.

"Over stiletto heels, a wedge is preferable as the contact area of the sole is much greater and therefore force is distributed more evenly," the expert noted before outlining that the bigger concern comes with wearing them regularly for long periods.

Dr Branthwaite warned: "For occasional wear, using this type of shoe may only cause minor skin irritation at most; long-term use can alter the length of muscles and tendons, leading to changes in movement and joint problems."

She concluded: "Some people will get on well with this style of shoe and others will find them terribly uncomfortable. Always assess if the shoe is comfortable, you can walk normally in it, and it is worn sporadically."

So yes, wear the wedges by all means. Just perhaps don't make them your new everyday footwear.