Summer has arrived. It’s tempting to take those flip-flops out of storage and wear them whenever possible. Did you know that according to studies, people who wear flip-flops while walking tend to change their gait? Additionally, they walk with shorter strides, perhaps because of the need to hold the flip-flops with their toes and to lessen the force with which their heels strike the ground without any cushioning.
Although flip-flops may be cozy, entertaining, and stylish, they are detrimental to your feet and posture. You may wear them at the beach or the pool as the last defense for your feet. However, you should avoid wearing them for outdoor activities and shouldn’t stand still for a long time or walk excessively in them.
Wearing flat shoes when dressing can negatively impact how you stand and move. Flip-flops don’t bend the same way your feet do, which alters your body’s biomechanics or the way that your body moves and functions. The movement of feet is especially challenged while wearing flip-flops.
A tiny rubber strap is the only thing holding your foot to the shoe. It can cause skin irritation on the top of your foot and between your toes, resulting in acute discomfort and blisters.
As you move your feet from one pedal to the next, your flip-flops may become trapped or restrict your foot movement. It is possible that you won’t be able to respond quickly if you are having trouble releasing the brake or accelerator.
Flip-flops don’t offer any arch or heel support, which everyone needs whether they have flat foot problems or a high arch. As a result, you may feel soreness or piercing pain on the inner side or at the bottom of your feet.
Because they are open shoes, flip-flops can increase the risk of broken bones, stubbed toes, puncture wounds, or glass cuts.
Although flip-flops might be your summer footwear of choice, there are other options that will support your feet and keep them comfy throughout the summer.
If you have questions about foot health or are dealing with pain in your feet, don’t hesitate to contact the office of Dr. John C. Marzano at Westchester Podiatric Healing Medicine, P.C., in Yonkers, NY, to schedule a consultation. You can visit our office at 984 N. Broadway, Suite LL03, Yonkers, NY 10701, or call us at (914) 423-0600.