Flip-Flop Wearers Beware

   By drodriguez  Jul 17, 2008
130

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?

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Cropperhopper by Cropperhopper | SHARON, PA
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.

coolkidz by coolkidz | Miramar, FL
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!

knituk by knituk | Herndon, VA
Jul 30, 2008

i hate wearing actual shoes but i should start...my shis are killing me!

asian_gal33 by asian_gal33 | Amesbury, MA
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

lpetrik by lpetrik | Sarasota, FL
Jul 30, 2008

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!

arlozoe by arlozoe | ramona, CA
Jul 30, 2008

I live in So-Cal so I am able to wear flip-flops just about everyday of the year and I do! I haven't experienced any foot/hip problems. I'm almost 43 so maybe I'm just lucky!

LMC2003 by LMC2003 | Englewood, OH
Jul 30, 2008

I love flip flops in the summer time. I wonder if it is over a period of time they start or if it something I will have to deal with later in life. Anyone have the answers?

toriphilly by toriphilly | buffalo, NY
Jul 30, 2008

I have never really liked flip flops due to the pain described in this article. I finally found some that I can wear around the house for cleaning and to the beach etc. Has any one tried FitFlops? I was curious about those.

rachcresp by rachcresp | TAYLOR, PA
Jul 29, 2008

I have never been big on flip flops but I decided to get some this summer since it has been SOO hot. I have to say that I tend to agree with this study because I have noticed since I have been wearing them that my ankles have hurt a little bit. I think it is because I am so afraid that they are going to fall off that I put more pressure on my feet to keep them on though.

Luv2Shop83 by Luv2Shop83 | Mesa, AZ
Jul 29, 2008

I live in AZ so flip flops are a must! I have always had knee and hip problems but I can't live with out flip flops when its 114 outside! I do agree that a good athletic shoe is best.

threadbeaur by threadbeaur | Shalimar, FL
Jul 29, 2008

I can't do it, I am in flip flops all day! I have a pair of keen's they are the best!

masmac20 by masmac20 | Medford, WI
Jul 28, 2008

I can't imagine not being able to wear flip flops all summer! So far I have not been feeling any pain. I'm gonna keep on wearing them until I can't!!! LOL

CrankyMel by CrankyMel | Sterling Heights, MI
Jul 28, 2008

My chiropracter has advised me against wearing flip-flops in addition to the obvious high heels and heavier-than-my-child handbag. My back has been much better this summer than in the previous ones.

Armywife76 by Armywife76 | El Paso, TX
Jul 28, 2008

I love flip flops and never even thought of the impact they have on our feet and legs!! Well now this is going to change my thinking every time I reach to put them on, which is on a daily basis! I live in El Paso where it is HOT and a full covered shoe about kills me! Please tell me where to get the yoga sandals to try out! My Back always hurts and I would like to switch from the flip flops to something else to see if it works!!

mina77 by mina77 | STONE MTN, GA
Jul 28, 2008

I've been wearing flip flops for over 20 years and have had no problems with my feet, ankles, and legs.