At Feet First Foot Care Specialists, we want to encourage our patients to live the happiest and healthiest lives they can. Part of that is by providing the best support and the most informative facts for our patients. It’s summertime and for many of us, flip-flops are the footwear favorite. But did you know by making a few positive changes to your summer footwear could vastly change your podiatric health? 

Flip-Flops and Your Feet

While flip-flops may be the most effortless choice on a hot sunny day, they do not provide nearly the right amount of protection and support that your feet need. Excessive pressure can cause the heels and arches of the feet to swell. Due to the limited amount of protection that flip-flops provide, several adverse effects include blisters, foot fungus, strained tendons, plantar fasciitis, and more.

When Is the Right Time to Wear Flip-Flops?

While there are many adverse effects of wearing flip-flops regularly, wearing them for a brief time may have outweighed the benefits. Wearing flip-flops in locker rooms protect your feet from fungus and bacteria that may be living on the floor. Wearing flip-flops for a short time protect the feet from athlete’s foot and plantar warts. Overall, choose a time to wear flip-flops when you are doing low strenuous activities like walking to the mailbox or going to the pool. Avoid wearing flip-flops on long walks or while running errands.

Treating The Adverse Effects of Flip-Flops

The first step in treating the adverse effects of flip-flops is to swap them out for another pair of breathable shoes that provide the right support for your feet. Placing an ice pack on the affected area may relieve some pain and swelling. Lightly stretching the area or alternatively using a tennis ball to roll out the affected area may provide relief. If you or anyone you know have persistent pain, it is best to contact a podiatrist for further assistance.

The Best Alternatives to Flip-Flops

Sandals usually provide more support to the arches of the feet than flip-flops due. Custom orthotic sandals are a great option. As you search for a better footwear option, consider:

1. Adding additional straps for more coverage and support.
2. They are the right size and fit well.
3. They provide enough support.

When To Call a Podiatrist

If you or anyone you know suffers from persistent pain in the feet, ankle, and arches, it is always best to contact a podiatrist. A podiatrist will be able to examine the affected areas and determine the best course of treatment. To schedule an appointment at our Cromwell, Connecticut office with board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas,call (860)-632-5499 or visit our website.