Skinny jeans, high heels may impact women’s health

London, March 19

Love skinny jeans, oversized bags and high heels? These fashion choices may be damaging your body, scientists have warned.

Wearing skinny jeans can wreak havoc in our body as they restrict free movement in areas such as the hips and knees, affecting the way we hold our body, researchers said.

Researchers from British Chiropractic Association (BCA) in the UK, have found that fashion forward people are putting style ahead of their health.

As much as 73 per cent of women suffered back pain and their wardrobe could be a major cause of the discomfort out of which 28 per cent of women were aware that clothing effects their back or neck pain and posture.

About 33 per cent were completely unaware that their choice of clothing could have an impact on their back or neck health.

According to the research, about 20 per cent of women chose to wear shoes which are without support at the back of the foot which will increase strain on the legs and lower back.

Similarly, 10 per cent of women sported heavy jewellery, such as statement necklaces, which increase pressure on the neck and can wreak havoc with posture.

Researchers revealed skinny jeans, oversized bags and those worn on one side of the body, coats with large fluffy hoods, high heeled shoes and backless shoes as the top five clothing culprits.

“Some of the most popular items of clothing can have a hidden health impact. While overloaded and heavy handbags are a common culprit, some more unexpected items like skinny jeans can also wreak havoc,” said Tim Hutchful of BCA.

“I am always surprised at how many of my patients are unaware that their clothing and accessories can affect their back health and their posture and, equally, how many decide their outfit-choice outweighs their pain,” Hutchful said.

“New trends such as asymmetric hemlines, over sized sleeves and hoods and heavy jewellery can also create problems,” he added. — PTI