A walking heel can refer to one of two things: a type of heel found on women's shoes or a component of a walking cast.
Walking Heel on Women's Shoes
This refers to a style of heel commonly found on women's shoes designed for comfort and practicality during walking. It is characterized by the following:
- Lower Height: Generally lower than a Cuban heel, making it more stable and comfortable for extended periods of walking.
- Broader Shape: Wider base provides increased stability and reduces the risk of ankle twisting.
- Practical Design: Favored for its functionality and suitability for everyday wear, as opposed to more stylized or fashionable heels.
Essentially, a walking heel on a shoe prioritizes comfort and stability without sacrificing style entirely.
Walking Heel on a Walking Cast
This refers to a specialized heel that is embedded within the sole of a walking cast. Its purpose is to:
- Allow Ambulation: Enables the wearer to walk more easily while the foot or ankle is immobilized.
- Promote Healing: Controlled weight-bearing can sometimes encourage bone and tissue repair.
- Improve Balance: Helps maintain a more natural gait compared to walking without a heel on a cast.
In this context, the "walking heel" is an integral part of the cast's construction, specifically designed to aid in walking during the healing process.