Flip Flop Fiasco

As we enter summer, more and more patients are coming into the office with new foot and leg pain. The only thing they have changed in their daily routines is a transition into flip flops and sandals with the warmer weather. Why could this type of footwear cause problems? Listed below are some of the reasons:

1.Most sandals and flip flops do not offer enough arch support. Without a well supported arch, heel pain (plantar fasciits) or pain to the inner ankle (tendonitis) can develop.
2.Sandals and flip flops also do not offer support in the region of the back of the heel and ankle. Therefore, the ankle is unstable which can also cause tendonitis and other ankle injuries.
3.Sandals and flip flops do not fit snuggly to feet. Because of this, a decrease in the length of stride is warranted which can lead to abnormal muscle usage in the lower legs, thighs and back. Also because of the loose fit, the toes/digits have to work overtime to grip the ground to stabilize the foot during gait. This can lead to the development of callus formation, ingrown toenails and/or hammer toes.

Running shoes and cross trainers would be a much better option for feet. But if you can't resist your sandals and flip flops, and pain occurs, our office is available to help. Please feel free to call our office for an appointment, 440-946-5858.


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