Choosing the wrong footwear can silently damage your spine and joints. Ortho and sports surgeon Dr Obaidur Rahman has shared a video on Instagram revealing five types of footwear that are responsible for lower back and knee pain. The doctor says 95 percent of patients who visit him with back pain complaints see significant relief after simply changing their slippers.
Bathroom Slippers Lack Arch Support
These flat slippers are commonly used in Indian bathrooms. Dr Rahman advises keeping them confined to the bathroom only. They offer very little arch support and are especially harmful for people with flat feet. Prolonged use can trigger back and knee pain.
Pointed Shoes And Ballerinas Damage Toes
Pointed shoes and ballerinas look elegant with formal wear but harm the toes. These footwear types squeeze the front of the foot. Regular use can cause the toes to become crooked over time. The unnatural shape affects posture and joint alignment.
Crocs Provide Insufficient Foot Support
Many people wear Crocs daily for their soft comfort. However, the doctor warns they are too soft to provide stable support. The front of the shoe does not allow proper air circulation. That said, a different variant of Crocs may work better for some individuals.
Kolhapuri Chappals Disrupt Natural Foot Curve
Kolhapuri chappals look beautiful with ethnic wear but should not be worn frequently. The flat sole fails to support the natural curve of the foot. This causes the foot to turn inward, upsetting bone balance upward. The misalignment directly affects the knees and lower back.
Chelsea Boots And Heels Cause Anterior Pelvic Tilt
Chelsea boots and high heels are stylish but rank as the worst from a health angle. These footwear types keep the heel elevated with a narrow front. The lower back tilts forward and the pelvis moves into an anterior tilt position to prevent falling. Dr Rahman says these can be worn occasionally but never daily.
