Flip flops may be a stylish and comfortable footwear option for leisure time in the summer, but they can be very hazardous when worn while driving. Insurance agents and driving safety experts claim that flip flops have a tendency to get tangled in cars’ brakes and can sometimes cause bad accidents on the road.
The design of this type of sandal also prevents the driver’s feet from activating the pedals right away. Studies have shown that wearing them while operating a vehicle makes decelerating take about .13 seconds longer than it normally would.
Walking in flip flops can also be dangerous, as they frequently lead to the development of painful foot and ankle problems. If you think your flip flops are causing you to develop a lower limb condition, consult with podiatrist Sharon L. Pletcher, DPM of Family Foot Center. Dr. Pletcher can take a look at your feet and help you with any damage this fashionable footwear might have caused.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
- Ankle problems
- Hip problems
- Lower back problems
- Pain in the balls of the feet
- Problems with foot arches
- Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
- Sprained ankles
- Blisters
- Infections
- Cuts and Scrapes
I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.
For more information about Flip Flops and Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in State College, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
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