A "pump bump" is a big bump caused by constant pressure from a shoe cutting into the skin. They are usually found on the back of the heel, on or around the Achilles tendon, or on the top of the foot behind the toes where edge of pumps hit the foot.

To prevent pump bumps make sure the top line of the shoe isn't pressing against the heel tendon. Avoid buying shoes that feel tight in these areas by using these 2 simple "fitting rules:"

Rule #1 - You should be able to slip your pinky between the shoe and your foot when you are sitting at the back of the heel.

Rule #2 - You should also be able to slip your pinky in between your foot and the top of the shoe, just behind the toes.

If you cannot do these two things, then your new shoes will eventually cause too much pressure that could hurt, cut off circulation and possibly lead to blisters! At the end of the day when we feel so happy to kick off our shoes - that is the circulation that is cut off. You should never feel that way!

What to do if you already have "pump bumps"? Eliminate the cause by applying Foot Petals Haute Heelz into your shoes to raise or lift the heel and irritated area higher and away from the back of the shoe. Also, try applying Heavenly Heelz or Strappy Strips to ensure that the shoe fits snugly but stays on the foot and does not cut into tender areas.

If you have too tight shoes but cannot give them up, take them to a shoe repair shop and have them professionally stretched.

Do the "double pinky test!" We have all bought cute flats only to find that they are almost more uncomfortable that my high heels! Why?

Your foot moves differently in flats with each step. Flats allow your foot to fully spread out with each step. The arch is our natural, built-in spring (kind of like a built in shock absorber) and it absorbs 3-5 times our body weight with every step. To test this theory, sit down and trace your foot...then stand up and trace it. The difference is how much space you need inside your shoes.

Step #1 - When trying on flats, make sure that you can fit the tip of your pinky between the back of the shoe and your foot while sitting. That's how much space your toes will need to "spring forward"

Step #2 - Make sure that you can actually wiggle your toes inside the shoes. If your pinky toes is smashed, get a bigger size.

Comfort Tip: To prevent feet from sliding around in shoes and to absorb the shock from these fabulous but often thin little shoes, add Killer Kushionz to the bottom & Heavenly Heelz to keep heels secure.

Why does this happen? In high heels, your toes will not "grow or spread" with each step because your foot will stretch out at least one full size.