Wear Flip-Flops With Caution. Doctors Say There Are 8 Health Risks Of Wearing Flip-Flops
Aug 30, 2018
Flip-flops are a summer wardrobe staple. They're cool, comfortable, and easy to slip on. But your flip-flops could actually be damaging your feet. Here's why you should consider ditching your flip-flops this summer.
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Why You Shouldn't Wear Flip-Flops
1. Flip-flops can twist your toes permanently.
When you wear flip-flops, your toes can get twisted up over time - and this damage is permanent. Regular shoes are much healthier for the bones of your feet.
2. The materials may not be safe.
Many flip-flops are made from cheap materials that contains toxins. Do you really want to wear toxic materials on your feet every day?
3. Flip-flops can give you bunions.
Walking in flip-flops every day can give you sores on the sides of your big toes - ouch.
4. They slow you down.
Flip-flops fall off your feet more easily than other shoes, so you've got to walk more slowly than usual to keep them on.
5. They can cause blisters.
If the straps of your flip-flops rub your feet the wrong way, you'll get blisters, which can make it painful to walk in any shoes.
6. They're not safe to wear when driving.
If your flip-flop slips off your foot while you're driving, it can get wedged under the brake pedal, so you won't be able to stop your car.
7. Flip-flops can give you a foot infection.
Your feet are more vulnerable to picking up dirt and bacteria when you wear flip-flops. This can lead to an ugly (and painful) foot infection.
8. They can trip you up.
Flip-flops are just plain difficult to walk in. If you aren't careful, you'll find yourself tripping over your own feet when you wear them.
How to Wear Flip-Flops Safely (If You Must)
Still not ready to give up your flip-flops? Here's how you can minimize the risks of wearing them.
1. Wash your flip-flops frequently.
Reduce your risk of getting a foot infection by rinsing your flip-flops with an antibacterial wash on a regular basis.
2. Pay a little extra for high-quality flip-flops.
High-quality flip-flops are less likely to give you blisters or damage the bones of your feet, so don't hesitate to spend a few extra dollars for a good pair.
3. Choose natural fibers.
Flip-flops made of natural fibers are less likely to contain toxic materials than flip-flops made of plastic.
4. Only wear flip-flops during appropriate activities.
Going for a hike? Leave your flip-flops at home. Flip-flops are more appropriate for low-key activities like strolling on the beach.
5. Don't keep your flip-flops forever.
Even high-quality flip-flops aren't meant to last forever. Get yourself a new pair of flip-flops every year.
6. Pay attention to your posture.
Flip-flops can damage your posture, so put some extra effort into standing up straight when you wear them.
Are you going to stop wearing flip-flops this year? If not, why not? We'd love to hear your thoughts!
Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!