How to Survive a Night of Dancing in High Heels

There is no definitive proof of exactly who invented the modern day high heeled shoe, but I'd be willing to bet the farm it was a man. I mean, what woman in her right mind would invent something so twisted and tortuous? High heels are impractical, uncomfortable and a challenge to walk in, let alone dance in.

Studies have even shown that high-heeled shoes can cause both short and long term damage to the body. Yet we women keep on wearing them for one simple reason: they make our legs look long and lean. That's correct-we risk getting a sprained ankle or back pain for the sake of looking sexy!

Yes, there are times we just really want to wear those high-heeled shoes, so we can look fabulous at the prom, a wedding or other special event. We even want to attempt to dance in our sky high heels. For that reason, here are some tips to avoid toppling out of your shoes.

Practice makes perfect. Whatever you do, don't buy a brand new pair of high heels and leave them sitting in your closet until the big night. If you're afraid they'll get dirty, at the very least walk around your house in them so you can get used to them and break them in. You should also practice dancing in them at home, doing some side-to-side moves, as well as turning slowing in them.

Buy Insolia inserts for your shoes. Developed by a renowned podiatrist, Insolia inserts fit any style high heeled shoe, and are invisible. They shift weight to the heel which reduces the pressure and the pain, and makes the high heels more comfortable. My friend tried these and swears they really do make a difference. Gel inserts for the toe of the high heels are another good option to add a little comfort.

If you have to do any walking to get to the actual event, take your high heels in a tote bag and change into them when you arrive. (But only if there will be a place to stash your tote-you don't want to carry around your other shoes all night).

Fast dancing in high heels does not come highly recommended. You risk a painful side ankle bend or worse, an embarrassing face plant to the floor, so keep it slow and stick to basic moves.

Do gentle stretches to loosen your calf muscles before and after a night of dancing in high heels to reduce muscle cramps. To prevent injuries and improve your dancing, strengthening exercises for your feet, ankle and calves should be a regular part of your fitness routine.

If you're going out for a long evening of dancing in high heels, expect your feet to hurt a little that night, and more the next day. Hopefully, you will have had a fantastic time to make it all worth while!