Flip-flop walker can lead to orthopedic problems, Auburn University

09 Jun '08

2 min read

Shroyer, who owns two pairs of flip-flops himself, said the research does not suggest that people should never wear flip-flops. They can be worn to provide short-term benefits such as helping beach-goers avoid sandy shoes or giving athletes post-game relief from their athletic shoes, but are not designed to properly support the foot and ankle during all-day wear & like athletics shoes, should be replaced every three to four months.

“Flip-flops are a mainstay for students on college campuses but they're just not designed for that kind of use,” he said.

The study included thong-style flip-flops from well-known retailers and manufacturers and ranged in price from $5 to $50. Athletic shoes included in the study also ranged in price and style.

Shroyer's interest in flip-flops has other footwear applications, as well as applications in other areas of biomechanics research. He will apply conclusions from the flip-flop study to his dissertation research on specialty athletics shoes and how they support the foot and aid in biomechanic performance.

Auburn University

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