Are Sandals Bad for Your Feet?

Sandals are cool in both fashion and comfort. They might seem like the perfect finish to your comfortable attire, but could sandals be bad for your feet?

Foot Injuries

The human foot contains bones, tendons, and muscle tissues that can be damaged when they encounter too much pressure or not enough support. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, a majority of foot problems are caused by footwear that does not sufficiently support the feet and heels, and sandals are often guilty of just that. Thin soles place unnecessary pressure on the heel bone itself, as well as surrounding tendons. Eventually, bone spurs or other growths might form on your heels, which can be very painful. Mild to severe discomfort is known to disappear and reappear, especially when sandals are worn for longer periods of time.

Tendinitis is another negative effect that is caused by continuous walking on flimsy cushions. In this case, there is an inflammation or swelling of the tendons or connecting fibers. Since these fibers are responsible for connecting the muscle tissues and bone, intense pain can accompany tendinitis. Bone spurs, heel growths, and tendinitis are often treated using stretches or even surgery. If they persist and cannot be relieved by these methods, you should consult with a physician to learn more about your exact situation. Also, it is very likely that wearing sandals while experiencing bone spurs, heel growths, and tendinitis will only further aggravate the symptoms.

Nerve Injuries

Shoes that do not fit your feet properly could lead to pain initiated by nerve damage. As explained above, even though sandals might seem to fit your feet well, they might not provide enough cushion or support to protect them. Nerve pains can result in a feeling of numbness or shooting pains. They can also manifest in unusual sensations, like imaginary insects crawling all over your feet.

People that have diabetes or are suffering from chronic problems in their lower back are more prone to nerve injuries. Whenever an area of the body becomes numb, it is more difficult to sense pain or serious injury to that area. The same concept applies to the numbness of the feet, and extra caution should be taken to avoid nerve damage.

Cuts, Bruises, and Blisters

Besides the bone, tissue, and nerve injuries that sandals can cause, your feet will also be more vulnerable to cuts, bruises, and blisters. The lack of coverage and exposed soft tissue on the outside of your feet make it easier for wounds to become infected.

Therefore, it is recommended to select a shoe that is comfortable and supplies adequate protection of your heels, soles, and toes. By making the right choice with your footwear, you will be preventing a number of injuries, and ensuring that you always put your best foot forward.

Sources:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foot-pain/MY00082/DSECTION=causes

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foot-pain/MY00082/DSECTION=when-to-see-a-doctor

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/foot-pain/MY00082

http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2007-mchi/4366.html

http://www.livestrong.com/article/89353-foot-problems-related-sandals/

Comment on HelloLife

What's YOUR take on this? Does it bring up any questions? Can you offer more information on this? Did you just enjoy reading it? Leave your comment here!

First Name:

Last Name:

Your Email:

Security Code:

Confirm Code:

You are at least 13 years of age and agree to our terms of service.

(All fields Reqiuired)