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You may look and feel hot wearing your three-inch stilettos, but killer heels are not called "killer" for nothing.

 

"Wearing very high-heeled stilettos alters your posture and pushes the center of your weight forward, which places your knees, spine, and hips out of alignment," Dr. Janis Ann Espino-de Vera, an orthopedic surgery and sports medicine specialist at St. Luke's Medical Center, told Marie Claire in its September issue.

Yet it's not just your shoes you should be wary of. Huge, heavy totes can put pressure on the nerves connected to the spinal cord, which can result in back pains.

To prevent possible risks to your health in the name of fashion that may even result to surgery, Rochelle Bonifacio-Prado of Marie Claire came up with these tips:

1. Use lightweight materials. You can lessen the pressure on your shoulder by choosing a bag made of canvas, nylon, or cloth. If you feel that the contents make your bag heavy, try to get rid of non-essentials like an iPod when your cellphone can already play music. Pack smaller water bottles and pocket-sized snacks.

2. Practice good posture. To lessen back pain, Dr. Espino-de Vera recommends taking time to pull your shoulders back, lifting your chest and breathing normally. Try to sleep on your side, or place pillows under your knees for support if you prefer to lie on your back.

3. Switch sides. Carry your bag, especially if it's heavy, alternately on each shoulder every ten minutes while walking. This balances the weight on both sides of your body.

4. Give high heels a break. You don't have to wear heels everyday. Try alternating your flats and heels every other day for good balance. Rochelle recommends that you continue wearing heels since a one- or two-inch lift can help reduce back pain as it follows the natural position and shape of your feet.

5. Soften your shoes. To help you feel more comfortable standing on your heels the whole day, insert gel insoles in your shoes.

6. Use a compress. If you get sore feet from wearing heels, apply cold compress to the sore area then a hot pack to help relax your muscles.

7. Get a massage. Dr. Espino-de Vera advises that you get a massage when the pain has subsided so you won't feel extra sore afterwards.

8. Stretch. This can help improve your flexibility and prevent your back muscles from stiffening and growing weaker.

9. Listen to your body. Pain is not to be taken lightly, especially if you're starting to experience it more often. When you feel there's something more to the usual pain, consult a doctor immediately.