Three Reasons Why Crocs May Be Good For Your Feet

You either love them or hate them, but it appears that the infamous foam clog is here to stay. Patients are constantly asking me if Crocs are a good or bad choice of footwear. My general opinion of Crocs is that they are a reasonably good shoe. Since it appears that Crocs have outlived the fad, I’ve done some homework for you to support my opinion. Coordinating them with your outfit is truly up to you!

There is no question that what you wear on your feet is extremely important. Your feet are your foundation for walking and standing. If your foundation is not good, you will likely develop problems in the feet, knees, hips or low back. How long it takes for problems to develop depends on how well your body compensates for mechanical strain.

I have provided three reasons why Crocs may be good (orthopedically speaking) for your feet.

1) Stability is Good
Crocs provide a wide base of support which in turn provides good stability to the foot. Stability is important for balance and may help prevent rolling over on the ankles.

2) Good Cushioning Support
Crocs do a good job of distributing pressure throughout the foot. The foot provides shock absorption for the entire body with each step that you take. Many people have structural foot problems (and don’t realize it) that result in poor shock absorption. Poor shock absorption causes strain to accumulate in the joints and soft tissues of the feet, knees, hips or spine which can result in various injuries. High pressures on a diabetic’s foot can cause ulceration to occur which can have disastrous consequences if the person fails to notice due to loss of sensation. A shoe with good cushioning support can help to distribute pressure throughout the foot.

3) Medial Arch Support and Small Heel
Crocs have a decent medial arch support and a slightly lifted heel which helps prevent excessive collapse of the arch. Excessive collapse of the arch, known as over-pronation is extremely common and the main reason people are prescribed orthotics. Over-pronation is seen in people of all ages from children to the elderly. Keeping the arch supported helps minimize physical strain on the body.

It is not known whether wearing Crocs will prevent mechanical problems or injuries from developing. I would not recommend them in place of orthotics or orthopaedic shoes but they have certainly earned their place on my list of “good” shoes.