Compared to high heels, flip-flops don't even look remotely hazardous.

But health professionals are admonishing of the risks of their prolonged use like the risk of shin splints and joint pains.

Regular complaints comprise twisted ankles, but a few have broken their arms or wrists after falling as their flip-flops caught on rough ground.

Specialists said that flip-flops force people to alter the style they walk so that when taking a stride they press down the outside of their foot, rather than their heel, leading to long-standing damage.

And there is also the risk of serious injury from tripping over. Lots of people suffer aching toes as they continually scrunch them up, whereas there is also the danger of the odd stubbed toe.

Flip-flops are one of the most popular shoes among women, with 15 million wearing them every day in summer, according to shoe firm MBT in Britain which obtained the figures.

Mike O'Neill, spokesman for the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists, Britain, warned of the damage.

"The lack of support of the flip-flop also causes pain in the tendons on the inside of the foot and lower leg. It can also lead to shin splints," he said.

Medical practitioners said that flip-flops are just as bad for the feet as stilettoes but cause far more damage as they are worn for longer periods of time. (With Inputs from Agencies)