Summer = Flip Flops
With the summer weather comes different fashions than we typically wear in the winter like swimsuits, shorts and flip flops. The flip flop has been making news recently because people are realizing that they are not as good for us as they feel or look. Many people are beginning to experience an increase in foot pain and other problems from wearing shoes that offer little or no support to the feet, like flip flops and other sandals.
Flip flops do have a redemptive quality in that they protect the bottom of your feet from hot sidewalks or sand or germs in the public restrooms or showers, but they offer no arch support, heel cushioning or absorb shock. The main problem comes because flat shoes promote a flat foot, which for people with a high arch it may not be problematic, but for people with a flatter arch already, there can be problems.
One problem that has become more prevalent in the last few years is plantar fasciitis. Many women suffer with this condition, as well as men. It can come from foot structure, not enough support, a lot of standing and being overweight. Many people feel the pain when they first get up in the morning or after sitting for a long time. The doctor can diagnose this problem and can offer some tips on how to handle the pain.
It will help to cut back on activities and give your feet a rest, especially from hard surfaces. Ice can be used to reduce swelling, as well as over-the-counter products like Advil or Naproxen. Stretches like calf stretches and using a towel at the arch of the feet and pulling up with both hands may help, as well as rolling the arch on a rolling pin. Be sure to get shoes with a good arch support, not flip flops, and orthotics may be necessary in the shoes to give additional support. The arch may also be taped up to give more support if needed.
Other problems that have been noted with the overuse of flip flops are back aches and pains, leg pains and other foot problems. Flip flops have their place, but should not be overused and are not for the day at the amusement park or mountain trail.
