A new trend circulating on TikTok is raising concerns among health professionals and podiatrists due to its potential for causing serious injuries. The trend, which involves participants dropping various heavy household objects onto their feet and subsequently rating the pain, has garnered significant attention, with videos tagged under #droppingthingsonmyfoot amassing millions of views.

The phenomenon has seen creators dropping items such as air fryers, toasters, vacuum cleaners, and even wooden tables with the aim of producing humorous content. One such participant, Luke Pilling, a 19-year-old sales adviser from Bolton, has seen his video of dropping an air fryer and toaster on his foot receive over 3.8 million views. Pilling stated that his initial motivation to join the trend stemmed from “curiosity and just because it was funny,” adding that he enjoys making content that allows him to laugh at himself.

However, the trend has caught the attention of health experts who warn of the long-term ramifications associated with such reckless behaviour. Dr Benjamin Bullen, a lecturer in podiatric medicine at the University of Galway, described the trend as “troubling,” emphasising that it’s likely to result in significant foot injuries. He cautioned that participants could risk damaging the delicate nerves, bones, and joints of their feet, potentially leading to a lifetime of pain and mobility issues.

Despite the warnings, many creators continue to participate in the trend, with some admitting to a conscious decision to ignore health risks for the sake of entertainment. Reece Brierley from Manchester, who filmed himself wincing in pain after dropping multiple objects, including an old toaster and a vacuum cleaner on his foot, mentioned the appeal of viewing real-time reactions. He remarked that “if you follow a person, you follow them for them and their personality,” highlighting how the presentation of reactions can amplify engagement.

Brierley also noted a monetary incentive driving participants, as TikTok content can be monetised, thereby encouraging more creators to engage in potentially harmful activities for financial gain. Although he found the trend humorous, he acknowledged the dangers involved, stating, “I do not advise anybody to do it.”

Both podiatrists and participants have recognised the addictive nature of social media trends and the allure of viral fame. Pilling reflected on the increasing weight of objects being dropped, saying, “if it’s genuinely going to injure you and take up the NHS’s time, then that’s when it gets a bit too much.”

As the trend continues to proliferate, TikTok has been noted to have safety teams dedicated to monitoring and removing posts that promote dangerous behaviours contrary to their community guidelines. Nevertheless, the allure of creating viral content appears to remain potent among users, despite the warnings from health professionals.

Source: Noah Wire Services