Health experts are expressing concerns over a new TikTok challenge called the “Barbie Feet” challenge, which has gained popularity among users.
The challenge is a result of Greta Gerwig’s film Barbie, which has gained massive global attention, with people hyped about the colour pink.
The Barbie feet challenge involves individuals pointing their toes to create the illusion of longer, slender feet, similar to the iconic Barbie doll. The scene in the film depicts Margot Robbie slipping out of her heels and walking out of them with her feet remaining in the same position, flaunting slender legs.
Experts argue that the “Barbie Feet” pose can cause strain on the muscles and tendons, leading to pain and potential injuries.
“This visually appealing pose became a trend on social media platforms, with many people trying to emulate the long-legged look. However, beneath the allure lies the potential for negative impacts on the body,” Dr Aashish Chaudhry, Senior Consultant & Head, Department of Orthopaedics & Joint Replacement at Aakash Healthcare told IndiaToday.in.
The expert shared that the Barbie Feet challenge can affect the body in the following ways.
Impact on leg muscles
Frequent participation in the Barbie Feet Challenge can place considerable strain on the leg muscles. Standing on tiptoes requires significant effort from the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus).
The prolonged engagement of these muscles can lead to fatigue and discomfort. While occasional participation may not cause severe damage, individuals attempting the challenge too often risk overexertion, increasing the likelihood of muscle strains and other related injuries.
Effects on bones
The bones of the feet and ankles are not designed to bear the entire body weight in the tiptoe position for extended periods. Repeatedly subjecting the bones to such stress may lead to micro-fractures and stress injuries.
In severe cases, this could potentially contribute to conditions like stress fractures or plantar fasciitis, which involve inflammation and pain in the foot’s connective tissues.
Knee complications
Additionally, the Barbie Feet Challenge can affect the knees, particularly the patellofemoral joint—the area where the kneecap (patella) meets the thigh bone (femur). When standing on tiptoes, the alignment of the knee joint can be altered, potentially causing discomfort and undue stress on the cartilage.
Prolonged practice may contribute to conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome or exacerbate pre-existing knee issues.