For those who don’t know what flip flops are, they are the flat soled sandals that make a “flip-flopping” sound when you walk. Over the years, flip flops have increased in popularity, so the question of “are flip flops bad for my back and feet?” has been asked.
If you want my honest answer... Flip flops are terrible for your back and feet! Flip flops lack support for the medial arch (the arch that runs from the inside of your foot to the outside) and the longitudinal arch (arch from the toes to the heel). They do not properly handle the forces that are applied during the weight acceptance phase of gait, this is the phase when your foot contacts the ground.
The improper distribution of forces may cause muscle strains, ligament sprains, or other soft tissue injury. For example, the lack of support may change your gait leading to an over stretching of the plantar fascia (the tissue that supports the arch of the foot). This may cause heel pain or even a heel spur. The altered gait may also lead to improper weight acceptance leading to ankle, knee, hip, and low back challenges later on.
I understand the ease and simplicity of slipping on this type of shoe in the summer. IF YOU MUST WEAR FLIP FLOPS... I would suggest a brand like Croc or Okabashi. They have a slight arch support, which is better than their lacking competitors.
Over all, when choosing your summer footwear, please choose your footwear with your back and feet in mind.
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