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?
I live in Fl. and wear flip-flops about 95% of the time. The ones I wear the most are Reebok sport flip-flops and they make my feet feel better than athletic shoes. I definitely think the kind of flip-flop you wear makes a difference. I'll be wearing mine 'til they fall to pieces!
asian_gal33::
on Jul 30, 2008
As my as I need support for my flat feet, I do still wear flip flops. people mention about fit flops and alot of people tell me how great they are. I've been meaning to try it but its a little more expensive and dont come in much colors. but i bet fit flops are alot better than flip flops
knituk::
on Jul 30, 2008
i hate wearing actual shoes but i should start...my shis are killing me!
coolkidz::
on Jul 30, 2008
Try FitFlops they are awesome. Even if they don't do what they claim of making your legs leaner, they are the most comfortable shoes. I usually have heel problems from walking on tile floors but when wearing these shoes it is like walking on air!
pynoblem::
on Jul 30, 2008
I've worn flip flops all my life until I had fibromyalgia. Now, they don't provide enough cushion for my feet.
toriphilly::
on Jul 30, 2008
Awesome thanks for the info on FitFlops. I am willing to pay the extra $$ esp being an adult my shoes last for ever! Plus if they do what they say that would be a bonus!
chaos7448::
on Jul 30, 2008
I wear flip flops until the snow flies. I even wear them when I see my orthopedic surgeon. I am about to have my second hip surgery in two years. Interesting read. I will have to ask my surgeon what he thinks.
karensava::
on Jul 30, 2008
Everyone should invest in FitFlops. I have two pairs. They are great!!!
mlb477::
on Jul 30, 2008
i love flip flops! i've worn them since i was a little girl and i'm 53 years old. the summer is the only season that my feet don't hurt. they can study all they want but until you are a flip flop wearer you just don't know.
momof3insprings::
on Jul 30, 2008
OMG. i am a flip flop junkie.!!! No wonder my low back always hurts. Oh well. I live in South Fla. I can't wear sneaks. I need my feet out.
