Now that the warm summer months are upon us, you may want to toss the sneakers and boots to the back of the closet. Many of us opt to wear something light and airy like the flip-flop for running errands or attending a more casual occasion.
Before heading to the shoe store this summer, you may want to hear about some new research published in the New York Times that shows wearing thong style flip flops can be very hard on your feet, ankles, and legs.
Researchers at Auburn University in Alabama conducted a study by recruiting 39 college-age men and women. The researchers had them wear both flip-flops and athletic shoes. The subjects were then told to walk on a platform where vertical force was measured as their feet hit the ground.
While wearing flip-flops, the subjects in the study tended to take shorter steps and their heels would hit the ground with less vertical force than when they wore athletic shoes. Justin Shroyer, a biomechanics doctoral student explained the study’s findings by saying, “We found that when people walk in flip-flops, they alter their gait, which can result in problems and pain from the foot up into the hips and lower back.”
So does this mean we should say goodbye to the flip-flop for good? Probably not. Shroyer, who admittedly owns a couple pairs himself, recommends people only wear flip-flops for shorter periods of time, like at the beach or running a quick errand. Shroyer stresses that the flip-flop is just not designed to support the foot and ankle for all-day wear.
What do you think of the new research stating that flip-flop wearers may experience foot, ankle, and leg pain?
Now that you’ve heard about the study, will you to give up the flip-flop on longer excursions?
flip flops are great for the summer but they do make you ache. As for the crocs I know all the kids wear them but I don't allow my 3 year old to wear them anymore. last year she had a pair and she tripped all the time now she wears regular sandals and she does not trip anymore.
sharman421::
on Jul 21, 2008
Love my flipflops!!!!!!! Wear the kind with a thicker sole and an arch for more comfort and foot support. Cannot stand hot feet in stinky sneakers! And what about my pedicure?!!!! Puleeeeeze
clgraves::
on Jul 21, 2008
I love flip flops or no shoes. I wear them everywhere. I think have a few pair that are my favorite. I'm sure I'll pay for it in the end.
ciclark::
on Jul 21, 2008
I love my flip flops!! I have been wearing them as long as I can remember!! No problems yet!!
mom2mandm::
on Jul 21, 2008
Wow! I try to wear shoes with support if I'm out and about and flip-flops only for trips outside to the mailbox or off of the deck. I'll be passing this info on to my friends to hopefully prevent any pain later on. Thanks for sharing!
cmarieresendiz::
on Jul 21, 2008
I never knew that! I have worn flip flops for years..and during the summer I always have them on because I live on the water. It is the next best thing to being barefoot and it keeps your feet from being burned on the dock:)
Thanks for the info though, I will pass it on, and keep it in mind when we head out for the day.
abmommy::
on Jul 21, 2008
I wear the Crocs 'flip-flop style' year round and just LOVE them. I used to wear different brands of flip-flops and I will never go back to wearing them on a regular basis. I find that my feet hurt when I'm NOT wearing the Crocs (since I have hardwood floors). I have several pair and recommend them to people all the time. They are absolutely the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn. Oh, and they were the best while I was pregnant too!!
tobielc::
on Jul 21, 2008
Wow.....now I know why my hip hurts more than usual. I usually wear flip flops around the house and out by the pool. I need to find something else that will be comfortable, and be good to my ole' bones.
notsoperfect::
on Jul 21, 2008
I love flip flops but I can see the downsides as well. I usually don't wear them out of the house..this thing about wearing flip flops and your foot accidentally touching the department store floor lol
chochie1::
on Jul 22, 2008
I love flip flops in the summer and getting out of stuffy shoes, even though I know they're bad for you. Crocs have been a nice substitution for times when it's not so hot since they allow for breathability and comfort. Glad to see I'm not the only one!
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