If traditional flip-flops are your summertime footwear of choice, we want to sound a cautionary alarm about spending too many hours in this type of shoe. Although we recognize that these shoes are easy to wear and help feet stay cool on hot days, many injuries and chronic foot problems develop from the long-term wearing of flip-flops. Below are common pros and cons of this summer staple shoe–

Pros: 

Flip-flops can provide a valuable service to your feet in specialized circumstances. In public places like community pools, nail salons, beach-changing areas, and restrooms, flip-flops protect by keeping your feet from contacting surfaces that may host fungi, bacteria, and viruses that can lead to foot infections. Keeping feet covered with these easy-to-slip-on and-off shoes can prevent athlete’s foot, warts, and fungal toenails. Flip-flops will also keep your feet safe from burns from hot pavement or scorching sand on your way to your beach blanket. Short stints in flip-flops in these settings are beneficial.

Cons:

Traditional flip-flops have a terrible design—actually, no design. The thin, flat layer of rubber or foam between your foot and the ground means the impact of every step is hitting the bottom of the foot with excessive force. They also have no arch support or structure that keeps your foot in place.

What’s the result of long-term, extended hours of wearing flip-flops?

It can lead to an inflammation of the plantar fascia, resulting in sore, achy heels. Blisters can easily form from the rubber piece that rubs between your toes. The lack of enclosing structure means cuts, injuries, and ankle sprains are high risk, especially if you wear flip-flops for more active pursuits or walking throughout the day. Finally, the gripping motion necessary for your toes to keep flip-flops on can increase your risk of developing hammertoes.

In the final analysis, it’s best to use flip-flops only in limited circumstances and for short periods. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort in your feet, contact our Middlesex County office by calling: (860) 632-5499 so that our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, can examine your feet and find the source of your foot pain.