“Although the Barbie Arch makes a woman’s legs appear longer and toner, it is not without risk. If someone attempts the pose once or twice, they will likely be okay and produce a great TikTok video,” Dr. Jodi R. Schoenhaus, DPM, RPhs, FACFAS, and board-certified podiatrist at Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center, told the New York Post. “However, if attempting the pose and stride over long periods, there are some risks involved. The ankle is unstable, which can lead to ligament sprains and injuries, commonly seen with high heel use.”
Walking in heels is not always an easy task, and walking on the balls of your feet without the support of a heeled shoe or muscles trained to hold a person’s body weight is even harder. There’s a reason that people don’t randomly become professional dancers later in life — training muscles to be able to withstand that type of strain must start early in life, and be done safely. Young girls walking around on the tips of their toes to resemble Barbie risk damaging growth plates and straining their lower backs.
“To walk on your toes without heels isn’t sustainable, and, in fact, the reality in the movie is that Barbie actually has flatfeet, along with 30 perfect of the population,” Schoenhaus explained. “Considering we aren’t trained ballerinas en pointe, let’s keep the fad to movie stars who have props and multiple takes to make it look perfect.” If you’re looking to try the trend at home, make sure that you have a support bar or even a table to help support your body weight so as to not put unnecessary strain on your body.
As for high heels? Train your muscles or wear them for short periods of time. Your feet will thank you.