By Annette Pinder
Flip-flops are convenient foot attire during warmer weather. However, many podiatrists say they can be bad for your feet, especially if worn for long periods of time or on a regular basis. Dr. Alex Kor, president of the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine agrees, noting that flip-flops can cause across different age groups. Experts say flip-flops lack arch support, which can cause your feet to flatten and put more stress on your joints, which can lead to pain, swelling, and other problems. They also don’t provide much protection for your feet, so you’re more likely to get cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and other injuries.
According to a recent article in Prevention Magazine, a supportive shoe requires sufficient arch height and a wide footbed, as well as durability. Potential problems from wearing flip-flops without these qualities can include blisters, plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, and bunions. As a result, most podiatrists recommend wearing flip flops for short periods or time, or choosing flip-flops that have good arch support and a wide toe box.
More highly recommended flip-flops are OluKai Ho‘ōpio Sandals, Aerothotic Original Orthotic Comfort Flip-Flops (the most economical and available on Amazon.com), OOFOS Oolala Sandals, Lululemon Restfeel Women’s Slide, and OluKai Ohana Sandals.
To learn more about these podiatrist-recommended brands, visit https://tinyurl.com/ms8k3thj for product information and pricing. (And no, I am not advocating for specific brands. There is nothing in this for me.) However, I do love flip-flops and am encouraged to know that there are better choices for foot health.
If you have any foot pain, it’s important to see a doctor or podiatrist, who can help you determine the cause of your pain and recommend treatment options.
