by Victoria O'Sullivan

Created on: May 25, 2009

Throughout history women have always gone to great lengths for beauty. We shave, pluck and wax; we undergo laser treatments, use harsh chemicals on our hair and wear binding undergarments to hide our imperfections. In recent decades our methods of achieving the perfect look have become increasingly dangerous. From cosmetic foot surgery to face lifts, we risk life and limb for appearance sake. The pain, expense and associated health risks of altering one's feet to fit a pair of shoes makes the least amount of sense to me.

Don't get me wrong, sometimes foot surgery is necessary, as in the case of someone suffering chronic foot pain or living with foot deformity; but what of the person who just wants narrow feet? To each their own, but before you sign up for this procedure, you should know the risks. The first and most common side-effect of surgery is infection. Any time the skin is broken, even in a surgical setting, there is the possibility of bacteria being introduced. This risk continues during the healing process. We all know how sweaty our feet can get; imagine the bacteria that can thrive there. And you're sure to find bacteria on any surface you walk on, including the floor of your tub. For this reason, the feet should be well bandaged after surgery. A water proof covering should be worn over the bandages when you shower.

In the event you do pick up an infection, it will typically manifest in the form of swelling and redness. Oozing may also be present. Don't wait to see if you develop a fever, as this is often absent in an infection of the foot. Be sure to seek immediate medical attention to avoid long term complications.

The next greatest risk of foot surgery is nerve damage. A condition called peripheral neuropathy can develop, leading to a sensation of burning or tingling, or no sensation at all. In severe cases, the patient is left unable to walk. This is definitely not an acceptable risk.

The foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and an assortment of muscles and tendons. These parts interact to achieve motion, provide support and render much needed shock absorption. When your feet are operated on, a delicate balance can be lost. The bones may become misaligned and unstable. Without adequate support the rest of your body will not align properly, leading to pain, not only in the feet, but also in the knees, hips and back.

The most cost-effective way of dealing with an awesome shoe that doesn't fit, is altering the shoe, not the shoe-wearer. Any other course of action is at your own risk. If you look at yourself and your loved ones, I think you will find that your health far outweighs the worth of any number of designer shoes.

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