Health professionals sound alarms about potential harm to veins from extended wear of flip-flops
Article Title: Watch Out for Hidden Risks: Flip Flops and Your Leg Circulation
Wearing flip flops during the summer may seem like a casual choice for comfort, but it could be hiding potential risks to your leg circulation and vein health. According to Dr. Adria Ford, DO, from the Center for Vein Restoration, good circulation is crucial for overall wellness [2].
The primary issue with flip flops lies in their lack of support and the minimal foot muscle engagement they provide. Normally, calf muscle contractions help pump blood back from the lower legs, but flip flops do not encourage this action effectively, potentially risking vein health [1].
This inadequate support can lead to a variety of foot problems, such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and toe injuries due to altered walking patterns [3]. Moreover, the open design of flip flops increases the risk of blisters and infections due to friction and exposure [3].
To ensure better leg and foot health during the summer months, experts recommend choosing footwear that offers good arch support and ankle stability, such as hiking boots [4]. Shoes should have a comfortable fit that does not compress the feet or put them in unnatural positions, potentially restricting circulation [5]. Instead, opt for supportive sandals or slip-ons, rather than tight or high-heeled shoes, which can impede blood flow [5].
In addition to choosing the right footwear, there are other recommendations for maintaining healthy leg circulation overall. Using compression therapy, such as compression socks, can aid in maintaining vascular health, but only if advised by a doctor [5]. Avoid tight clothing that restricts blood flow, and try to stay active to promote vascular health. Lastly, elevating legs when sitting can help reduce swelling and blood pooling [5].
In summary, while flip flops may seem like a convenient choice for hot weather, they pose hidden circulation and vein risks due to their lack of muscle engagement and support. Choosing footwear with arch support, stability, and comfort is essential to protect your leg health during the summer [1][4][5].
Science indicates that flip flops, often chosen for convenience in summer, could potentially impact health-and-wellness, including vein health, as their lack of support inhibits the natural muscle engagement that helps circulate blood effectively in the legs [1]. In the pursuit of maintaining overall wellness and good circulatory health, fitness-and-exercise experts advocate choosing footwear with good arch support and ankle stability instead [4].
