Can Flip Flops and Bare Feet cause Heel Pain?
Many cities worldwide experience a range of pretty intense temperature swings, from hot summers to glacial winters. It is no wonder our closets are so huge! Summer and Autumn hold high popularity for dusting off our sandals but also happen to be ‘heel pain’ season.
Although there are many benefits to wearing appropriate open-toed shoes under hot and humid conditions, you can’t help but wonder if those summer sandals are causing you such discomfort.
Most feet need support
Barefoot shoes may have become highly fashionable, yet those shoes that come with solid arch support, cushioning and a moderate heel to toe drop are out there for a reason.
It is a fact that feet are supposed to support your weight, cushion your steps and minimise excess pressure; however, in 2021, our walking surfaces are much firmer and flatter than what our ancestors were used to. Grass, clay and dirt have been replaced with concrete, hardwood and stone tile. Not forgetting that pressure is added on our heels due to genetics, modern individuals are a lot taller and heavier.
The summer of heel pain - and why bare feet and flip flops are to blame
Without a doubt, summer and Autumn is the peak season for heel pain, the heat, barefoot and flip flops changing the way you walk are pretty much to blame.
There are some intense problems with wearing flip flops; the most obvious is that they lack any sort of meaningful arch support. Meaning, they give your feet very little help when it comes to shock absorption making your feet take the brunt of the impact.
Furthermore, flip flops change the way you walk in negative ways; you end up taking shorter, more shuffling steps to keep your footwear from flipping and flopping right off your feet. This change in foot placement and alignment is linked to a greater frequency of heel pain and discomfort in the knees and back.
On the other hand, going wholly barefoot or in just socks is as bad as wearing flip flops! Due to the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, many people are spending a lot more time indoors, whether this is due to furlough or work from home schemes. Consequently, we are not wearing shoes as often; unfortunately, this can convert to heel pain. Not only that, but not wearing shoes or flip flops in some more public places like at the pool or beach could leave you open to other bacteria that could cause you problems such as verrucas.
What is the solution?
Don’t kick your beloved flip flops to the curb just yet; just ensure you wear them delicately and in the right circumstances.
If you plan to lounge around or sunbathe in the backyard for a while, flips flops will fit the job perfectly! It is unlikely that a great deal of walking or standing will be involved, and the thin layer of protection for your feet that flip flops have to offer will keep you from acquiring injuries or infections, unlike going barefoot.
Nevertheless, if walking and physical activity are in your nature, you should put something more supportive under your feet, even if it is only a short trip. There is nothing wrong with open-toed shoes, but you should insist on good ones!
Sandals that are more comfortable with solid arch support are an absolute must; avoid thin, flimsy or flat sandals for anything more than a short walk to the backyard.
Adjustable heel straps are a fantastic choice; they keep your sandals firmly on your feet and allow you to walk confidently using your normal stride - without screwing up your biomechanics.
As with shoes, a slightly raised heel is better and more comfortable than a completely flat or ‘zero drop’ sandal for most people.
Don’t neglect grip! If large amounts of walking on various terrains are on your list of things to do, choose sandals with a rubber outsole and good traction.
It is vital to consider closed-toe sandals for rugged hiking and sandals with extra straps and belts for more urban cruising.
Don’t let heel pain hold you back!
If your heels, feet or knees have been causing you pain ditching your flip flops and investing in a supportive pair of shoes or sandals can go a long way.
However, if you find yourself still in much discomfort and your heel pain is affecting your day to day life - be sure to consult with a podiatrist. Heel pain is almost always treatable without surgery within a few months; sometimes, all it takes is a professional evaluation and treatment.