While most women will go to great lengths to support their high-heel wearing habit, few realize the unhealthy impact on their legs and pampered toes. Enjoy life in the high-heeled society with these six tips.

High heels may be a closet staple for many, but any health guru will tell you to steer clear of the stilettos and wedges to prevent damage to leg muscles, save your knees, and reduce the chance of blisters on the feet later in life. Is it really time to give up the 4" pencil-thin heels in favor of good health?

Most shoe addicts will beg to differ, but thankfully, there are ways to protect those legs and feet without compromising on style. Consider these tips and strategies to enjoy life in the high-heeled society, without falling into an unhealthy habit:

1. Change that strut- Walking 'normally' in high heels is an easy way to cause damage to the feet and lower legs. Your steps need to be much shorter than usual, so it's best to skip your model-like strides and stick with the reality runway; plan on taking slower, smaller steps and avoid shifting your weight during the walk. Good posture also helps; keep that spine in alignment to help you balance your weight with ease.

2. Massage away pain- A day in heels may be a day well-lived, but it's still going to take its toll on your ankles, calves and knees. Enjoy some well-deserved TLC with a quick foot soak, or invest in a foot massage treatment at the local spa to manage aches, pain, and inflammation of the joints with ease.

3. Wear the right size- Many women go by the mantra of 'the tighter, the better when it comes to heels and shoes, but this can cause dozens of foot problems - not to mention the outcropping of unsightly blisters. Make sure your feet are comfortably stationed inside the shoe when you walk and sit down, and buy a size larger than usual if you need to.

4. Look for an adjustable strap- Adjustable ankle straps can give you some extra support, and help you balance better in those too-tall heels. Adjust the buckle to fit snugly around your ankles so that your feet are planted firmly and securely in your shoes for maximum comfort.

5. Give those calves a workout- Building up muscles and strength in the calves and thighs can help you balance better on even the skinniest heels. Make sure to stretch and strengthen calves on a regular basis so you can keep up with the demands of your next pair of heels.

6. Don't be a heel digger!- Avoid balancing your weight entirely on the heel while standing, and shift your weight to the ball of your foot instead. Digging your heels may be a good assertiveness strategy, but will damage your shoes - and your ankles.

Walking tall is every woman's right, but knowing how to pull it off without damaging the legs and feet is a top priority! Exercise your right to wear those high heels with these six strategies, and you'll be able to step out in style, without the pain.