Slippers have become part of the unofficial work-from-home uniform.  Walking barefoot on hard surfaces for an extended amount of time can be bad for your feet because it allows our foot to collapse which can lead to stress not only to the foot but to the rest of the body.

Feet naturally pronate during the gait cycle, however when we walk barefoot, we pronate for a longer period which then alters the biomechanics and distribution of pressure and weight across the foot.

This imbalance may increase the progression of underlying foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes and lead to painful conditions associated with excessive pronation such as heel pain, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis. These conditions can also contribute to knee, hip and back pain.

Consider having a shoe specifically for indoor use. Avoid wearing outside shoes indoors to keep from transferring bacteria and viruses from the outside environment into your home.

Wearing an indoor shoe or slipper in the house protects your feet from several ailments, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, shin splints.

Since toe gripping can lead to plantar fasciitis and muscle spasms, it’s important to find a slipper that fits well. Select a slipper that goes around your entire foot, avoid slides. The best house slippers provide arch support, and an anti-slip rubber sole is suggested. An orthotic footbed provides arch support, a deep heel and cushion in the ball of the foot is ideal.

Protect your feet indoors and out!