Beloved flip-flops wreck feet, lives

Health officials say while flip-flops are great for going to the beach, they should not be used for extensive walking, said AFP.

Foot pain experts recommend using real shoes when hiking trails, going on long walks even within the city, and especially when playing sports.

The reason is that unlike sturdy shoes, flip-flops don’t offer arch support, heel cushioning and shock absorption, said the American Podiatric Medical Association.

The lack of shock absorption in flip-flops could cause pain in the feet and legs, and even in the hips and back, orthopedic doctors at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York recently warned. They said wearing flip-flops could also lead to sprained ankles, broken toes and toenails, plantar fasciitis (a painful inflammation in the sole of the foot), and nerve problems.

For those who drive, flip-flops pose an additional hazard, not just to themselves but also to those around them.

If the flip-flops slip off the feet while one is driving, they could lodge under the accelerator or brake pedal, causing one to lose control of his vehicle. Motorists are, therefore, advised to wear only footwear that is snug enough not to come loose.

HealthDay also noted that wearing flip flops exposes the bare feet to the sun, raising the risk of getting skin cancer.