The new 3D scanner that could benefit shoe design

Nine out of 10 women who wear high heels will experience serious foot problems, however for the first time in the UK doctors will be able to view the foot and ankle in 3D which could show the effects of shoe design on feet.

ITV News Medical Editor Lawrence McGinty reports:

Women suffer foot problems as a result of high heels because of the intense pressure that is transferred to the ball of the foot.

A person's body weight is transferred to the ball of the foot which adds severe pressure to sesamoids which are the tiny pea sized bones under the big toe.

Frequent wearing of high heels also squashes the toes, forcing the foot into an unnatural shape, causing intense pain and long-term damage such as clawing of the toes.

The new X-Ray scanner at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital in Stanmore is the first in the country to give doctors a 3D view of a patients feet while they are standing up.

Orthopaedic surgeon Mr Andy Goldberg said while he does not advocate a complete ban on high heels he does believe they should be worn in moderation.

Former dancer Karen Brown warns her daughter against wearing high heels.

Ms Brown suffered from a type of arthritis in her toes which needed steroid injections and several operations.