Archive · 6 Aug 2026
Ultra-Flat Shoes Spark Back Pain Concerns, Orthopaedic Doctors Warn
Super flat shoes, like ballet flats and thin sneakers, are very popular right now because they look cool.
Doctors who help people with feet and back problems are worried about them.
When you wear very flat shoes, your feet don't get much cushioning or support.
That means your feet have to work harder when you walk or stand.
Over time, this extra work can make your feet, knees, hips, and back hurt.
Wearing them once in a while is usually fine.
But wearing them all day, every day, can cause pain.
Flat shoes are not the only reason people hurt — sitting too long and not moving enough also matter.
So it's smart to pick comfy shoes with good support.
And it's good to switch between different shoes instead of always wearing the same flat ones.
Ultra-flat shoes — ballet flats, minimalist sneakers and slim-soled loafers — have made a comeback, popularised by Gen Z on social media and now worn across age groups.
Orthopaedic specialists say prolonged wear can contribute to heel pain, foot strain, knee discomfort and lower back pain due to minimal cushioning and arch support.
Doctors stress footwear is only one factor, with poor posture, prolonged sitting, sedentary lifestyles, screen time and muscle weakness also playing major roles.
Occasional use is generally not a concern, but daily long-hour wear may raise risks of plantar fasciitis, tendon strain and joint discomfort, especially for people with flat feet.
Experts advise choosing shoes with arch support and cushioning, alternating footwear, and prioritising comfort alongside style to protect musculoskeletal health.
- Who
- Orthopaedic specialists such as Dr Rakesh Nair (Zen Multispeciality Hospital) and Dr Chandrashekhar Dixit (Jupiter Hospital, Pune), and consumers of all ages, including Gen Z.
- What
- Warnings that prolonged use of ultra-flat shoes can contribute to foot, knee, hip and lower back pain and other musculoskeletal issues.
- When
- Not specified in the articles; the warning accompanies the trend's recent resurgence.
- Where
- India — the doctors' clinical practices, including Jupiter Hospital in Pune; no other location specified.
- Why
- Ultra-flat shoes with thin soles and little arch support absorb less impact, forcing feet and lower limbs to bear greater stress that can travel up to knees, hips and the lower back.
Style Trend Supporters
Health Experts
Everyday footwear choice
Style Trend Supporters
Consumers increasingly choose ultra-flat shoes for their sleek, fashionable look, and experts admit occasional wear in healthy people is unlikely to cause lasting harm.
Health Experts
Orthopaedic specialists caution that using ultra-flat shoes every day for long periods can increase the risk of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, tendon strain and joint discomfort.
Cause of rising musculoskeletal pain
Style Trend Supporters
The ultra-flat trend, popularised on social media, is widely seen as a driver behind growing complaints of foot, knee, hip and back pain among young people.
Health Experts
Doctors say blaming footwear alone is an oversimplification; prolonged sitting, poor posture, screen time, muscle weakness and increased body weight also play significant roles.
- Footwear trend
- Ultra-flat shoes: ballet flats, minimalist sneakers, slim-soled loafers
- Popularity driver
- Gen Z through social media and celebrity-inspired looks
- Reported complaints
- Foot, knee, hip and lower back pain; heel pain and foot strain in young adults
- Potential risks
- Plantar fasciitis, tendon strain, joint discomfort
- Most vulnerable groups
- Office workers, retail employees, teachers and older adults with existing foot conditions
- Expert guidance
- Occasional wear is fine; daily long-hour wear may increase risk
- Buying advice
- Arch support, adequate cushioning, flexible supportive sole, room for toes, rotated footwear
- Experts quoted
- Dr Rakesh Nair (Zen Multispeciality Hospital) and Dr Chandrashekhar Dixit (Jupiter Hospital, Pune)