Experts Question Flip-Flops In The Workplace And Their Effect On Our Feet.

Women are wearing flip flops in the workplace moreA representative recently said, "We're seeing more
and more, especially in these warmer months. U.S.heel pain than ever in patients 15 to 25 years old, a
style experts believe that flip flops could be damaginggroup that usually doesn't have this problem." She
not only our feet but our careers.said that thin soled flip-flops give no arch support and
There are so many new styles of flip flops: beaded,can intensify abnormal biomechanics in foot motion.
leather, sequins that women feel it is easy to getThis will ultimately cause pain and inflammation.
away with wearing them to work.Flip-flops have been around for at least 70 years,
An employee of West Glenn Communicationsoriginating from traditional Japanese woven, and
comments that she wears flip-flops on the days shepossibly wooden soled sandals in New Zealand.
doesn't have important meetings with clients orThe Y-shaped and flat soled sandal is known all over
avoids wearing them if she knows that someonethe world and to all social classes.
who disapproves will be in the office.It is very common in developing countries for its
Thousands of women across the country consideraffordable price and sometimes the only shoe used
flip-flops an indispensable element in their summerbecause it is easy to make.
wardrobe.The term "flip-flop" gets its name from the slapping
An Old Navy and Gap online survey showed thatsound the sandal makes when it hits the ground and
flip-flops were at the top of the list as summer workthe heel.
attire for high school and college students. More thanA few years ago the life of the flip flop changed
31 % of the women surveyed said that flip-flopscompletely. They became trendy and popular. All
were essential part for their summer work wardrobe.kinds of stores sell them in a variety of colors with all
Many companies feel differently.kinds of decorations. There is even a bridal Flip flop
A spokeswoman for BNP Paribas says that if a dresswhich is full of Swarovski crystals and sells for $140.
code says no beachwear this includes flip flops.In June 2005 the Northwestern University's champion
Style experts advise that flip-flops could bewoman's lacrosse team wore flip-flops to the White
detrimental to a career. Younger women are theHouse to meet the President. It was considered
ones who tend to wear them to work.inappropriate attire and the women were criticized
Style commentator Meghan Cleary says, "ShoesEllen Campuzano, president of the Committee of
convey the mood of a woman. Wearing flip-flopsColor and Trends, a New York-based forecasting
conveys the mood that you are relaxed and onservice specializing in footwear and accessories,
vacation. That's not a good message in the office,"believes that flip-flops' popularity has almost run its
Doctors also have concerns about the effect ofcourse.
flip-flops on the feet."Usually these trends come and go in about five
Doctors at the American College of Foot and Ankleyears," she said. "I think we've reached the peak.
Surgeons say that flip-flops are connected to a risingThey can't be any more widespread, so maybe next
number of heel problems among teens and youngsummer something will replace them.
adults.