The thwack-thwack-thwack of a flip-flop clad walker is a familiar sound in the summer months, but a recent study has found some pretty painful flaws in the form of the familiar flip-flop.

Researchers at Auburn University in Alabama studied 39 college-aged men and women who wore flip-flops and athletic shoes. They found that flip-flops fail to absorb shock, resulting in aches and pain in other parts of the body as the force of impact was absorbed by joints instead of shoes.

Flip-flop wearers also take shorter strides, contributing to joint stress and fatigue from the increase in steps needed to cover distance (Barbara Kantrowitz and Pat Wingert, "Flip-Flop Flaws," Newsweek, June 10, 2008).

Foot specialists often see an increase in patients toward the end of summer complaining of injuries related to flip-flops. Depending on the country of origin, they can often contain chemicals that result in rashes on the feet.

Not only are flip-flops nonsupportive, but if worn during sports activities, they can result in sprains and twists (Jennifer Gish, "Flip-Flops Put Health of Users on Poor Footing," New York Times News Service, June 21, 2008)