Cheerful colors, interesting motifs, relaxed looking shape and fashionable impression, often become the attraction of sandals flip flop or so-called flip-flops. But be careful, it turns out that even though they look cheerful, flip-flops are no less dangerous than high heels you know.
On weekends or in an effort to avoid foot pain from using high heels For too long, some women choose to use flip-flops with attractive colors to keep them looking fashionable. Even some people who have problems with the ankles choose to use flip-flops in the hope of relieving foot pain. But, actually flip-flops can also cause tendinitis.
Why Are Flip Flops Dangerous?
Flip-flops can be dangerous for foot health because of the lack of protection for the feet. The shape of the flip-flops type of footwear tends to be flat and does not have a cushion on the heel, making the feet have to try to make gripping movements to keep the sandals in place.
In addition, when using flip-flops, the heel will lift freely and the big toe works hard to hold the sandal so it doesn't come off. This movement actually makes plantar fascia (the connective tissue that covers the soles of the feet) stretches, as do the muscles of the soles of the feet. If it occurs continuously can cause tired feet and foot pain, including the heel. This can change your gait and cause serious ankle problems.
In addition, the use of flip-flops that do not support the shape and movement of the soles of the feet can make the entire foot experience repeated impacts when walking. Eventually this will tear the protective layer of the heel bone and form a bulge of calcium or what is called heel spurs, which can be characterized by heel pain.
Gripping foot movements when wearing flip-flops can also result in foot injury or tendinitis (tendonitis). This condition is irritation or inflammation of the tendons (the flexible tissue that connects muscles to bones). Symptoms include a burning or stinging feeling in the tendon (usually the tendon at the back of the ankle), stiffness, and pain.
In addition to these disorders, the use of flip-flops with minimal arches can also cause back, knee problems, and is thought to cause very painful inflammation of the soles of the feet called plantar fasciitis. Lack of support for the soles of the feet when walking, will make the connective tissue in the soles of the feet constantly stretch. Eventually this connective tissue weakens, swells, and becomes inflamed.
What Footwear is Ideal?
To avoid these various problems, you should be more careful in choosing footwear. Not only because of the attractive color, but also pay attention to the following:
- Has a strap on the back.
- There are thick soles and shoe soles.
- Can reduce impact.
- Deep heel sole.
- Avoid footwear that bends backwards very easily.
- Pay attention to the material of the footwear to avoid irritation. Flip-flops with soft leather can be your choice.
- Change flip-flops every 3 or 4 months, especially if cracks appear on the soles.
Flip-flops are indeed attractive with their cheerful colors and can be an option when relaxing. However, using it for too long and too often can cause various problems. If you experience discomfort or pain after using flip-flops, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
