06/13/2013    

PODIATRISTS AND FOOTWEAR

Pronation from Flip-Flops Can Damage Feet: MI Podiatrist

Podiatrists say that one of the dangers of flip-flops is abnormal pronation. Pronation creates more movement in the bones, and is a condition that can lead to foot arch collapse, premature arthritis, bunions, and heel spurs, said Dr. Steve Bremer of Mercy Health Center North in Fort Gratiot.

Dr. Steve Bremer

Pronation also applies more stress to the inside of the knee, can lead to an early deterioration of hip cartilage as well as increasing the curvature of the spine. Flip-flops increase stress throughout the lower extremities and clearly accelerate the process leading to knee and hip replacement, Bremer said.

Source: Lance Farrell, Times Herald [6/8/13]