Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Health or Fashion: UGG Boots Detrimental to Feet and Spine

Ugg boots are certainly cute.  The sheepskin is warm, soft, and inviting and they go with virtually everything.  Research shows, however, that these boots--as well as ballerina flats and flip flops--can lead to serious problems in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and spine if worn frequently.

According to Dr. Drysdale, the head of the British College of Osteopathic Medicine, the foot does not receive the proper support inside the boot.  Consulting podiatric surgeon, Mike O'Neill stated, "As the foot slides around, you get wear and tear on the joints on the inside of the foot.  The ankle is in the wrong position, the thigh bone also changes positions, and you get an abnormal movement in the pelvis, which leads to back problems."

A lack of support in the foot can cause other problems such as fallen arches or plantar fasciitis.  If you're insisting on wearing UGGs, then schedule regular appointments with your chiropractor to ensure you're feet, ankles, knees, hips, and spine stay in line.