Podiatrist (Foot and Ankle Specialist) Questions Acupuncture

Are there any side effects of wearing acupuncture slippers for a long time?

I normally have a lot of walking to do during the day. Recently I purchased a pair of acupuncture slippers to get some comfort while walking. I just want to confirm if there is any problem wearing acupuncture slippers for a long time?

21 Answers

Wearing any slippers for a long time is a mistake.
Accupressure slippers are simply massage slippers. I recommend caution with extended periods of usage to reduce the risk of blisters and wounds especially with those patients that have diabetic neuropathy or those with impaired sensation.
I do not recommend usage.
There should be no problem as long as the accupuncture slippers are not causing any irritation (ie: blisters, redness, or pain).
If your feet don’t hurt when wearing them then it’s ok. I don’t know how old you are or if you have other foot problems so it’s hard to answer that question.
Should not be a problem wearing acupuncture shoes, they may become ineffective later with too much use. Safe to use.
Acupuncture foot wear are excellent choices for comfort in short or long term use .I want you to be certain that your protracted use may become a problem when you are engaged in certain professional work such as warehouse production where safety is one of the most important goals for protection.
I typically don’t advise patients to wear acupuncture slippers, as the slippers may irritate prominent bones on the bottom of the foot and even cause muscle aches on the bottom of the foot.
I do not approve of them.
Probably not if they are not causing you discomfort or forcing you to walk awkwardly.
There is not much if any, scientific research on the acupuncture slippers. I would recommend being evaluated and then we can make a more educated decision what is best for you
Hello,

Great question, acupuncture slippers have some benefit, but are not meant to use all day long. The greatest limitations to wearing them are:

1. Diabetic
2. Arterial insufficiency
3. Vascular disease

If you have any of those issues, I would not recommend them for use. Other factors that limit are the foot type you have. Higher arches will probably feel uncomfortable sooner if worn for more than a couple of hours. No physical activity should be done with them. I personally prefer getting actual acupuncture!

Thanks,

Dr. Jimenez
There are no studies that I am aware of, but I would not recommend wearing them all day. I think a proper arch support and shoes would be better. It is better to correct the way you walk than to treat the symptoms afterward.
This is not an issue that I have seen enough to have a good answer for you. I would follow the manufacturers instructions and stop if you have any discomfort.
There Should not be any specific problems associated wearing the acupuncture shoes. However, it is possible that they will not provide the pain relief that you are seeking. If they are comfortable however and you do not have discomfort wearing them, by all means continue to do so.
Sorry, that I am unable to provide you with answer regarding wearing of acupuncture slippers. However, I have prescribed electronic acupuncture therapy in the treatment of painful conditions affecting the feet (plantar fasciitis, heel pain syndrome, metatarsalgia, etc.)
If they fit well and are comfy rarely a problem.
As long as you have good sensation in your feet and are not diabetic, I wouldn't see any concerns with this. Thanks for the question!
I tell my patients all the time that the biggest thing for them is their comfort. Whether I feel something actually has clinical/therapeutic effects or not, if my patients are getting relief from a device, I am all for it. So, they will not hurt you, even in the long-term use. And if they make you feel better or give you relief, that's all the better.
I do see them causing issues if worn for a prolong time. If those feel comfortable and reduce your discomfort then a pair of inserts may benefit you in a pair of shoes.
There are no known side effects associated with wearing acupuncture slippers.