Warm Weather Footwear May Flip Flop on Foot Health

Warm Weather Footwear May Flip Flop on Foot Health

0627 flip flopSkylar and Penny Manning are fans of the popular summertime sandals known as flip-flops. “They’re very comfortable, easy to put on, I don’t get blisters like I would have with tennis shoes and they’re lightweight,” Penny Manning said. “I have at least 15 to 20 pairs of flip-flops.”

However, not everyone happens to like flip flops, citing reasons such as as the strip between the toes becoming bothersome and irritating. “I don’t like the way they feel between my toes,” Tonya Taylor said. “I would rather wear sneakers.” Medical expert John Whyte posted a story in The Huffington Post in 2011, saying “A study found that flip-flop wearers tend to grip the footwear with their toes, causing shorter stride length and improper force when their feet hit the ground.

Speaking to a podiatrist like Dr. Alan Discont of Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC help you better understand the steps you can take to ensure that your feet stay healthy while wearing flip flops.

Flip-Flops and Feet

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

· Ankle problems
· Hip problems
· Lower back problems
· Changes in the way you walk

Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?

· Sprained ankles
· Blisters
· Infections
· Cuts and Scrapes

I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result; make sure you are purchasing your flip-flops from a respected brand too. Replacing your flip-flops every 3-4 months is suggested to provide maximum support and protection for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our two offices which are located in Sun Lakes or Chandler, AZ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more on Flips-Flops and Feet.