Lower Back Pain and Flip Flops: How to Enjoy Your Summer

You know summer is in full swing when you see more and more people in swimsuits, sunglasses, shorts, and flip flops. In fact, flip flops are often a symbol of the easy-going beach life known here in Florida. But did you know that summer is also a common time for lower back pain for many people? In this post, you’ll learn how this footwear can lead to pain and two ways you can overcome it this summer!

How Flip Flops Can Cause Back Pain

Unlike many other types of shoes, including some special sandals, flip flops offer basically no arch support whatsoever. As a result, those who have flat feet (low arches) or hollow feet (high arches) get zero help from flip flops. Over time, unsupported arches can affect more than just the feet, causing a chain reaction of pain in the knees, hips, and lower back.

In addition to low or high arches, flip flops can create problems with your lower back because of how you must walk in them. To keep the flip flop secure, you have to apply pressure on the shoe and curl your toes as you lift your foot off the ground. This added step may not seem to bother you in the short term, but it can lead to tension in your legs, lower back, and hips.

Solutions for Fighting Summer Back Pain from Flip Flops

Although flip flops can be worn nearly any time of year in certain places, back pain from flip flops becomes more common during summer months. But this doesn’t have to be the case! Here are a few suggestions that can help you avoid tightness in your lower back and hips and enjoy your summer plans!

Take Advantage of Other Footwear

Fortunately, flip flops aren’t the only shoes available for summer. There are plenty of options out there for footwear during this time of year. Other sandals may be more secure on your foot, requiring little effort to keep them on and putting less strain on your feet and back. If you will be visiting the beach or enjoying time in the water, you could wear water shoes, which give your feet the protection of athletic shoes without the weight. Other shoes with specially fabricated sole supports are also a good idea.

Visit Your Chiropractor

Especially if you continue to wear flip flops on a consistent basis, you may want to consider scheduling regular appointments with your chiropractor. They can help your back release the tension caused by your footwear and relieve pain. They may also teach you stretches you can do at home to keep your back and hips flexible and loose.

Ultimately, what you wear on your feet this summer has an impact on the rest of your body, specifically on the alignment of the joints in your legs. While you’re out and about enjoying the sun, be aware that the flip flops you’re wearing could give you some trouble, and you do have ways to deal with it so you can have less lower back pain and more fun!

About the Author

Dr. Chad Wills has more than 20 years of clinical experience treating chiropractic issues. Only one other chiropractor in the Collier and Lee county is certified in Chiropractic Biophysics, one of the most researched treatment protocols in the field. Dr. Wills finds great satisfaction in relieving pain and helping patients achieve healthier lifestyles through chiropractic treatment and providing sole supports to help those who struggle with low or high arches. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Wills, you can reach out to Wills Chiropractic online or by calling 239-331-6060.