Level of Physical Activity among Working Females Wearing High Heels

Abstract

Background: Previous studies have indicated that wearing high-heeled shoes (HHS) may be associated with foot and low back pain and could potentially affect the physical activity levels of women. The impact of HHS on musculoskeletal discomfort, fatigue, and biomechanical alterations has been substantiated, albeit with varying conclusions regarding their influence on physical activity and health. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of physical activity among working females who regularly wear HHS and to determine any associations with musculoskeletal discomfort. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 125 participants recruited from various malls in Lahore using non-probability convenience sampling. The inclusion criteria encompassed adult females aged between 19 to 44 years, wearing heels of varying types and heights for a minimum of six hours per day. Exclusion criteria included a history of ankle dislocation, foot surgery, orthopedic or neurological anomalies, systemic illness affecting physical activity, or flat feet. Physical activity levels were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form (IPAQ-sf), and data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Results: The average age of participants was 25.14 years with a standard deviation of 4.509. The mean physical activity level was 1615.33 METs with a standard deviation of 1065.15. The majority of participants (54.4%) displayed a moderate level of physical activity, while 29.6% were categorized with low and 16% with high levels of physical activity. No significant correlation was found between heel height and physical activity levels or musculoskeletal discomfort. Conclusion: Working females wearing high heels predominantly exhibit moderate levels of physical activity. The lack of significant associations suggests that heel height does not directly correlate with reduced physical activity or increased musculoskeletal discomfort in this sample. These findings highlight the complexity of factors influencing physical activity and musculoskeletal health in the context of HHS use.