Women should ditch their high heels and opt for an essential piece of ladies sportswear - trainers - if they want to reduce their risk of osteoarthritis, a study has suggested.

Research from Iowa State University (ISU) found that regularly walking in high heels can contribute to joint degeneration and knee osteoarthritis.

It was discovered that high heels increase the compression on the inside of the knee and can also put strain on the lower back.

"Based on this information, wearing high heels puts individuals at greater risk for developing osteoarthritis and it seems to be that the higher the heel height, the greater the risk," said ISU student Danielle Barkema, who conducted the research.

The findings are to be presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Biomechanics later this month.

Last month, research from the Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research revealed that those suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee or hip can experience improvement in pain, physical function and self-perceived effect if they lead a physically-active lifestyle.

Posted by Martin Sebborn ADNFCR-2569-ID-800013902-ADNFCR

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