Source: Black Doctor.org
Ugg boots are the cozy, beloved footwear that many women wear both in and out of their homes. You can see them on everyone from celebrities to the girl next door, and they have been praised for their comfort.
But according to a story in the UK Daily Mail, a leading surgeon warns that Ugg-type footwear may be putting women at risk of serious knee problems, injury and could even require surgery.
The comfy shoes don’t offer enough support, says orthopedic surgeon Dr. Ian McDermott, and could cause a “knock-kneed” stance.
Known medically as Genu valgum, knock knees is a condition in which the knees angle in and touch each other when the legs are straightened. Individuals with severe valgus deformities are typically unable to touch their feet together while simultaneously straightening the legs.
The boots could lead to premature wear and tear of the joint because they offer insufficient foot support. This triggers a poor stance, affecting the intricate setup of the knee — and if left untreated long enough, can lead to cartilage damage.
“The longer these things are left, the worse the damage can become, and the harder it can then be to fix,” says Dr. McDermott.
“Sheepskin boots and high heels may look great, but vanity may come at the cost of potential physical damage to your body.
“Unsculpted and flimsy footwear can mean that your feet aren’t fixed in one location as you walk, meaning that the lower limb is working harder, with a greater risk of damage.
He added: “If someone born with an inherently poor structure or with poor alignment then wears a poorly supported pair of shoes or boots, this can exacerbate the whole issue and this can then end up being the final straw that pushes them into developing symptoms and actual orthopedic problems.
“Listen to your body and make sure to not wear flimsy boots every day. Although they can seem like the first choice for comfort this winter, opt for a sturdy pair of boots with correct arch support.”
An Ugg spokesman said its latest boots offered “added innovative enhancements” to improve comfort and stability.