For years women have been warned against the health issues surrounding wearing heels and ill-fitting shoes that can cause anything from a sprained ankle to a bunion. So, when the ballet-style ladies pump sprang into fashion, women's feet breathed a sigh of relief, a flat, sensible shoe – or not?

Health experts are now warning that these are in fact as, if not more, damaging than stilettos and strappy sandals. The warning arises from the recent Black Swan phenomenon that has swept the world, starring Natalie Portman as a ballerina. The High Street has seen a dramatic increase in the number of ballet pump style shoes that have been sold since Black Swan graced our screens but now experts including the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists are warning that they could be bad for ones health if worn for long periods of time.

As ballet pumps offer little support they can cause additional pressure to other parts of the body, as member of the society, Lorraine Jones comments:

“Professional dancers are no strangers to the perils of ballet shoes, which offer the feet little cushioning, leaving the lower leg and foot to absorb the full impact of the movement...This puts increased pressure on the knees, hips and back, which over time can increase a person's chance of developing arthritis.”
 

Peter Kaiser Pump	Pretty Ballerinas Polka Dot Pump	Hispanitas Ladies Pump

With ballet pumps such as those above offering such a stylish alternative to the less comfortable high-heels, it is clear why women are finding these a fashionable item for their wardrobe. Equally, with Spring approaching, many of us are starting to remove our feet from the confinements of our boots to unleash our newly painted toenails. So, do not fear ladies, as this health warning is nothing new to us...and I'm betting not many of you have listened to the previous warnings about high-heels?

Lorraine Jones does go on to say that the fashion isn't a complete none starter, just not something that should be worn all day. She even suggests; “If you embrace ballet fashion then try to opt for a shoe with a slight heel...” - (yes, you did hear correct, we are being encouraged to don heels!) - “...and higher sides which offers the feet a little more support. Try not to wear them for long periods, particularly if you are doing a lot of walking”.

Therefore, ladies are been warned to wear more comfortable and supportive shoes, something many have heard before. However, as many fashion conscious women have said since these health concerns – the ballet pump fashion has been in style for a long time, so why the warning now?

High-heels are bad for you, flats are bad for you, bare feet are bad for you...wear what you want and if your feet hurt, wear something else. Just a thought.