A woman in Fuzhou, China, suspected of being unable to walk due to frequent Crocs use, developed what felt like “stones” under her feet, and was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. A doctor pointed out: Softer soles are not always better; remember three key points when choosing shoes.
Recently in Fuzhou, Fujian, a woman frequently wore Crocs seeking coolness during the summer. Within days, pain began in her feet, so severe at times that she was unable to walk. Upon examination, her plantar fascia showed calcification, and she was ultimately diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.
● Proper Arch Support Is Essential
Experts analyzed that although Crocs have soft soles, they actually lack effective arch support. Such a condition can trigger aseptic inflammation of the plantar fascia, and over time, chronic plantar fasciitis may develop. Therefore, shoes should fit well (neither too tight nor too loose), provide adequate arch support, and have good shock absorption.
If pain in the foot sole occurs, reduce activities that trigger pain. You can also try ice packs to relieve inflammation. If pain is severe or does not improve, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.
In fact, Crocs are not the only culprit. Certain “stepping-on-poop-sensation” sandals, due to their flat, soft, and wide soles and inadequate midfoot support, fail to support the feet and lower limbs, making it hard for the feet to find the right force point while walking. If this improper force point persists, it can cause the plantar fascia to become lax or contract, leading to arch collapse or plantar fasciitis, and may also cause the ankle joint alignment to shift, leading to ankle degeneration, even knock-knees, lower back pain, scoliosis, anterior pelvic tilt, and poor posture.
● Overly Soft Soles Easily Lose Support
Doctors also suggest that although wearing sandals or slippers in summer is light and cool, you should not wear them for extended periods. When wearing Crocs, avoid wearing socks, as socks can reduce the friction between your feet and the shoes, increasing the risk of ankle sprains.
Additionally, because Crocs soles are too soft, doctors point out that when walking on uneven ground or stepping on something hard, support can be lost, making ankle sprains more likely. Therefore, long-term wearing is not recommended, especially for long-distance walking or exercise.