Studies have revealed that women who habitually wear high heels are at risk for permanent physiological damage to their knees, hips, back and tendons - and damage can be seen in women as young as 25 years old. That's because high heels force the wearer to place all of her body weight on the ball of the foot, compromising stability. This, in turn, makes her compensate for the instability by pushing her knees and hips forward and arching her back - an unnatural posture.

The scientists found that heel wearers moved with shorter, more forceful strides their feet perpetually in a flexed, toes-pointed position. This movement pattern continued even when the women kicked off their heels and walked barefoot. As a result, the fibers in their calf muscles had shortened and they put much greater mechanical strain on their calf muscles.

While no heel is safe, there are some strategies for mitigating the ill effects:

1. Alternate Heights

 If your tendon doesn't get acclimated to the same height every day, it won't shorten to a specific height. Wearing heels of different heights is better than wearing the same type of heels constantly.

2. Stretch

  Sit in a chair and use a yoga band or twisted sheet slung around your foot. Pull the band towards you as you stretch your toes forward.

3. Use Commuter Shoes

  Especially city commuters walk a great deal on their routes to work. Use a supportive flat shoe while walking and change into heels once you reach your destination.

4. Choose A Wedge

  Any heel that offers more surface area is putting less stress on the ball of the foot, so go with a chunky heel, wedge or even a platform.

5. Add Orthotics

  Even an over-the-counter shoe insole can make a tottering heel more stable -- and that can help you walk better.