Flip Flops and Foot Health 12th August 2022
The sun is shining and the beach may be calling, but perhaps you should think twice before slipping on those flip flops for your summer holidays.
We know they’re convenient and easy to kick off when you head into the sea, but, it will come as no surprise, that they’re not actually that great for your feet and for foot health.
If you’re a flip flop lover, carry on reading our flip flops and foot health blog, and don’t forget to enjoy the summer while you’re at it!
Flip flops are a firm favourite with many of our patients, and we know that they make summer fun a whole lot easier. It’s good news, as you don’t have to stop wearing them altogether, just get to know them a little better and opt for alternatives where you can.
Toe-curling activities
Flip flops cause you to curl and clench your toes, it’s part of the design and poorly made flip flops can make this action worse. Fighting to keep them on your feet is not only a challenge, but it isn’t great for your foot health, either.
Our Massage Therapist Claire says: "walking in flip flops makes the muscles in the front of your leg work harder than they would if you were barefoot or wearing more supportive footwear. Overusing these muscles can cause them to develop tiny tears and become painfully inflamed, leading to medial tibial stress syndrome, or 'shin splints'. This and other footwear-related pain like plantar fasciitis are also commontly refered to as 'flip-flop syndrome' ".
It’s all connected
When you force your toes to act in such a way, it can impact the rest of your body, in particular, your lower back, shins and hips! Remember that your body is all connected, and even the slightest of changes to your posture can have a big result.
You might be tempted into thinking a week in flip flops won’t really make a difference, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. We have so many patients booking in to see us when they get back from their holiday, wanting us to look at all manner of pains and aches. Often, they’re footwear related!
So, what can you wear?
We aren’t telling you to bin your flip flops, we are just saying that it is worth giving more consideration to your summer sandals next time you come to purchase them.
As an example, consider opting for a sports sandal or ones that have an ankle strap to give you that bit more support. Traditional or cheap flip flops can be uncomfortable and a battle to keep on your feet!
Another idea is to really consider how far you’re walking in those flip flops. While to and from the beach won’t hurt, wearing them day in and day out can have a lasting impact. Be sensible in your footwear choices and think of the long term benefits!
Enjoy the sun!
Wherever you’re heading with your flip flops in tow, we hope you have a wonderful time. Enjoy the sun and keep an eye out for future posts about hydration and posture, to keep you moving and in tip top condition while you’re on your holidays.
If you do happen to need us when you get back, you can book in to see one of the team, whether it’s for an adjustment or a well earned massage, or even perhaps a yoga or Pilates class to stretch off after all the exploring and sun worshipping!
