Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.
High heels do not directly cause bunions — the underlying predisposition is hereditary, determined by foot structure and first ray mechanics — but they are one of the most significant environmental factors that accelerate bunion progression in individuals with a genetic susceptibility. Heeled shoes shift body weight toward the forefoot, compress the toes into a narrowed toe box, and create lateral deviation forces on the big toe that progressively worsen hallux valgus deformity over years of regular wear. In New York City’s professional culture, where women in particular spend long hours in elevated, pointed-toe footwear, this accelerated progression is a daily clinical reality at Healthy Feet Podiatry — and our approach combines honest education about footwear impact with practical conservative management strategies that don’t require abandoning professional dress standards entirely.
At Healthy Feet Podiatry, bunion management for high heel wearers begins with a full biomechanical evaluation and weight-bearing X-ray to stage deformity severity and assess rate of progression. Conservative management — appropriate for mild-to-moderate bunions without significant pain or functional limitation — includes custom orthotics to redistribute forefoot load and slow deformity progression, bunion splinting and toe spacers for symptom relief during and after heel wear, targeted stretching of the first MTP joint capsule and hallux abductor muscles, and specific footwear guidance including heel height recommendations, toe box width criteria, and insole options that reduce forefoot compression without requiring a complete style overhaul. For patients whose deformity has progressed to the point where pain, instability, or inability to fit standard footwear is significantly affecting quality of life, we discuss surgical correction options — including minimally invasive techniques with excellent cosmetic and functional outcomes.
Healthy Feet Podiatry serves a large and diverse population of New York City high heel wearers — from corporate executives and legal professionals to fashion industry workers and performing artists — who need bunion care that acknowledges, rather than dismisses, the role footwear plays in their professional and personal lives. We provide practical, realistic, and evidence-based guidance that helps patients slow bunion progression while navigating the footwear demands of NYC’s professional culture. Our Manhattan locations are convenient for patients across the Upper East Side, Midtown, and surrounding neighborhoods, with same-week appointments and most major insurance plans accepted. If your heels have been accelerating a bunion problem, Healthy Feet Podiatry is ready to help you manage it on your terms.
TESTIMONIAL
Dr.Artis was so amazing. After going to two other podiatrists who gave me no support or hope, Dr. artis made me feel like there can be change for me. She was so patient, kind and informative. I’m actually excited to go back and get my results.
Everyone was super friendly. Doctor Rick’s explained everything thoroughly.
Dr Bell was incredibly thorough and personable. Gave me great information and useful information for my next steps. A great experience!
“Fast, professional, and very clean office. I was checked in and seen within 10 minutes of my scheduled time. Dr. Ricks was straight to the point but thorough. The front desk staff was also incredibly helpful.
All of the staff are super welcoming and professional! Bianca took excellent care in getting my X-rays. Dr. Ricks was thorough in explaining my diagnosis and next steps. Highly recommended!!
Well before I came in today to see Dr. Ricks my foot in pain was 9/10 and now I feel good 🙏🏿🤩 thanks
Behind every great care experience is a team that truly listens. Our doctors are committed to understanding your needs, delivering personalized treatment, and supporting you every step of your health journey.
Dr. Farah Alani is a New York City foot and ankle surgeon at To Healthy Feet Podiatry, a boutique podiatry practice located in the heart…
Dr. Alison Bell was born in Manhattan and is a Public Health graduate of Charles R. Drew University. She obtained her medical degree from Kent…
Dr. Roxann Clarke is a graduate of Hampton University in Virginia, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology and her Master of Science…
Dr. Ricks is a board-certified fellowship-trained podiatric surgeon committed to delivering top-tier foot and ankle care. From New Jersey, she a Bachelor’s in…
As the Chief Operating Officer of To Healthy Feet Podiatry, Tiffany provides leadership to ensure all administrative are producing optimal results. Dr….
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