Jennifer Aniston decided to give up her favorite high heels because of a serious ankle injury.

Hollywood icon Jennifer Aniston has made a surprising decision that has left fans both concerned and empathetic—the 56-year-old actress has officially given up her beloved high heels following a serious ankle injury. The Friends star, known for her timeless style and affinity for sky-high stilettos, revealed the news in a candid interview with Vogue, shedding light on the physical toll her fashion choices have taken and her journey toward prioritizing health over glamour.

Aniston’s injury occurred earlier this month during a morning hike in Los Angeles, an activity she has long credited for keeping her grounded and fit. According to sources close to the actress, she misstepped on a rocky trail, twisting her ankle severely enough to require medical attention. Doctors diagnosed a grade 2 ankle sprain, which involves partial tearing of ligaments, and advised a strict recovery regimen, including avoiding high heels to prevent further strain. “I was devastated,” Aniston admitted in the interview. “Heels have always been my go-to—they make me feel confident and powerful. But this injury was a wake-up call.”

The decision marks a significant shift for Aniston, whose red-carpet looks often feature designers like Christian Louboutin and Manolo Blahnik, with heels that have become a signature part of her aesthetic. From her days as Rachel Green on Friends to her recent promotional events for The Morning Show, Aniston’s love for heels has been well-documented, often paired with sleek dresses or tailored trousers. However, the injury has forced her to rethink her choices. “I can’t risk permanent damage,” she said. “I’ve been wearing flats and sneakers for weeks now, and honestly, it’s growing on me.”

Fans have taken to social media to express their support, with many sharing their own stories of abandoning heels for health reasons. Posts found on X highlight the relatability of Aniston’s choice, with one user writing, “Jennifer Aniston giving up heels for her ankle is such a mood—I did the same after a sprain and never looked back!” Another added, “She’s still a style icon, heels or no heels. Health first!” The sentiment reflects a broader cultural shift toward comfort in fashion, a trend Aniston seems poised to embrace.

Aniston’s injury also underscores the physical demands she faces in her career. At 56, she remains active in both acting and producing, with upcoming projects including a third season of The Morning Show and a new comedy film. Her fitness routine, which includes yoga, strength training, and hiking, has been a cornerstone of her lifestyle, but the ankle sprain has forced her to modify her approach. She’s currently working with a physical therapist and has incorporated low-impact exercises like swimming to aid her recovery, all while adapting her wardrobe to prioritize stability.

This isn’t the first time Aniston has faced health-related adjustments. She has been open about her struggles with insomnia and the importance of self-care, often advocating for balance in her wellness brand, LolaVie. Her decision to ditch heels aligns with this ethos, showing a willingness to evolve as she navigates aging in the public eye. “I’m learning to love flats,” she told Vogue. “There’s a certain freedom in not worrying about twisting an ankle on a night out.”

As Aniston heals, her fans and fashion enthusiasts alike are eager to see how she’ll redefine her style. Early glimpses of her in chic sneakers and elegant ballet flats at recent events suggest she’s embracing the change with her signature grace. While the high heels may be gone for now, Aniston’s influence as a trendsetter remains unshaken, proving that true style transcends footwear.