The New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association is warning Kiwis that this long hot summer could be putting their health at risk by encouraging them to wear summer shoes which are uncomfortable, don’t support the foot adequately and encourage poor posture, for longer than normal.
According to the NZCA high heels and jandals are the worst offenders. A new report on behalf of The Vitality Show, in the UK, revealed that, as well as causing bunions and damage to the tendons, high heels can have a dangerous effect on the back, distorting its natural alignment and compressing the spinal nerves resulting in back pain.
It seems that jandals can be just as bad if worn for extensive periods. In a study conducted by Auburn University*, researchers discovered that wearing thong-style jandals can cause postural imbalances, which in turn can lead to long-term health problems of the knees, ankles, hips, back and neck.
Dr. Simon Kelly, spokesman for the New Zealand Chiropractors’ Association explains:
‘High heel shoes place the heels unnaturally high above the toes. On top of that, the body’s centre of gravity is thrown forward. Eventually, this poor posture places too much uneven wear the discs, the joints, and the ligaments of the back.
‘The fact that jandals can be damaging is usually more of a surprise to people as they associate them with relaxation and comfort. But we’ve known for some time that when people walk in jandals they alter their stride to compromise for the lack of support the sandal provides. Jandal wearers tend to grip the shoe with their toes while walking, forcing them to take shorter steps. This modification in gait produces muscle imbalances and improper joint mechanics, leading to dysfunction in various parts of the body.’
Despite the risks associated with wearing particular styles of summer shoes, Dr Kelly emphasises that it is not necessary to give up wearing heels and jandals completely.
‘It’s all about moderation. It’s been a great summer and naturally people want to look good. High heels and jandals should only be worn for short periods of time and both types of shoe should be reserved for days when you will not be doing a lot of walking. It’s also a good idea to set aside days where you don’t wear either style and stick to a supportive trainer or a sandal with ankle support and insoles instead.’
*Auburn University research team, Justin Shroyer et al, 2008 annual meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine, Indianapolis
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