Summer is upon us – cookouts, laying by the pool, strolling around in your favorite flip flops. It’s a wonderful time of year!
But recent studies are providing a warning concerning our favorite summertime footwear; “While fashionable and fun, flip-flops can actually lead to weakened and fallen foot arches — and that’s just the beginning,” says Dr. Dawn Sears, a New York City doctor of podiatric medicine and surgery. “The danger with flip-flops is that they cause both short-term and long-term harm to your feet.”
Oh no! Does this mean summer is ruined forever because our dreaded flip flops are going to revolt and destroy all of our feet?!?
No. Take it easy now. Even though a press release from Dr. Sears revealed that other serious injuries from flip-flops may include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon injury and stress fractures of the long bones in the foot, these injuries normally occur in patients who wear their flip flops all the time. So here are some tips on how to avoid the flip flop blues:
- Avoid wearing flip flops 24/7: There is just not enough support for the foot to keep from causing discomfort and possibly long-term damage. Stick to short trips where you won’t be walking all that much, like to the beach and the pool.
- Avoid wearing flip flops in challenging conditions: All that foot exposure can result in broken toes and toe nails. Never, ever wear them when operating any type of lawn equipment.
- Don’t forget sunscreen: Feet can get sunburned too! Don’t forget to put sunscreen down there.
- Consider your age: If you’re older, you’re more prone to some of the above issues
- Consider your weight: As you can imagine, bigger people are more prone to foot damage, especially in flip flops
Enjoy your summer but be sure to keep conscious of your footwear! As always, contact the We Treat Feet Staff with any questions on the above article (or anything else!).
Source:
Livingston County News
