Are Flip Flops Bad For Your Feet?
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Are Flip Flops Bad for Your Feet?
Let’s face it, much of the country looks forward to the weather getting warm enough to pull out those sandals and flip flops from the closet. In Florida, it’s warm enough for most of the year. Flip Flops are easy, convenient, and stylish footwear. Whether you are on the beach or going to the store, throwing on a pair of Flip Flops makes life a little simpler. With many people working from home due to COVID-19, flips flops are the go-to option most of the time. But with only a piece of thin flat material between your feet and the ground, are Flip Flops bad for your feet?
Are Flip Flops Bad for Your Feet?
The quick answer is that it depends on how often you wear them. Wearing them on occasion is most likely not a problem. Wearing flip flops all the time can cause problems in your feet, knees, and back.
What Happens to Your Feet When You Wear Flip Flops?
Image of foot anatomy
When you wear flip flops, your walking pattern changes. This happens because there is only a small strap holding them on your feet. They would not stay on your feet with a normal walking pattern. Most people have to claw their toes as they walk to hold the sandals in place. Over time, this can lead to painful corns and calluses on the feet and toes.
The thin piece of material does not provide support for the arches of the foot. Over time this can place increased pressure on the heel and stress on the ligament structures that stabilize the foot. This can lead to foot strains and Plantar Fasciitis.
Ankle sprains are more likely in flip flops due to them “flopping” around when you walk in them. They make it more difficult to adjust if you step on an uneven surface.
The normal walking stride typically shortens when you wear flip flops. This helps to keep them in place on your feet but it can change the forces on your feet. This can lead to pain in the knees and back as well.
If you would like to learn more about Plantar Fasciitis, this VIDEO may help.
When Can I Wear Flip Flops?
The quick answer is to wear flip flops in moderation only. That means do not wear them every day and do not wear them when you know you are going to do a lot of walking. The prolonged and repetitive stress on the feet from flip flops is what can lead to orthopedic issues. If you are going to be walking a lot, it may be better to bring another pair of stable shoes with you so that you can change them if needed.
Image of walking in flip flops
When Should I NOT Wear Flip-Flops or Sandals?
There are definitely times to completely avoid wearing flip flops. You should NEVER wear Flip Flops when:
- Driving – This is unsafe! The flip flops can come off or get stuck on the pedals.
- Running – It is nearly impossible to run with proper technique in flip flops. No Jumping either.
- Walking in gravel or high grass – Flip flops and sandals do not protect your feet from sharp objects or ants/insects.
- Diabetes – People with diabetes should avoid sandals due to the potential for decreased sensation in the feet. This could lead to a cut or lesion that may not be noticed.
Are Some Flip Flops Better for Your Feet?
If you really want to wear flip flops but you are concerned about having foot issues, there are some other options. Choose a sandal that has better support for the arches. Birkenstocks are a good option for better arch and foot support. Choosing a sandal with a backstrap can help hold them in place and decrease the changes in your walking pattern. The takeaway message is that Flip Flops are OK for most people if they are worn occasionally. Just don’t overdo it.
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
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