As summer approaches, many Albuquerque residents are eager to slip into their favorite pair of flip flops. While these casual sandals may seem like the perfect footwear for hot New Mexico days, podiatrists at the New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute caution against their prolonged use.
Here's why these seemingly harmless shoes could be jeopardizing your foot health.
- Lack of Arch Support: Flip flops typically offer minimal to no arch support, which can lead to various foot problems. Dr. [Name], an experienced Albuquerque podiatrist, explains, "Without proper arch support, your feet have to work harder with every step. This can result in conditions like plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain."
- Increased Risk of Ankle Pain: The flimsy nature of flip flops provides little stability for your ankles. "We see many patients complaining of ankle pain due to excessive flip flop wear," says Dr. [Name]. "The lack of support can lead to ankle sprains and strains, especially on uneven surfaces."
- Altered Walking Pattern: Flip flops force your toes to grip the shoe to keep it on, altering your natural gait. This unnatural walking pattern can cause stress on your feet, ankles, and even your knees and back.
- Exposure to Injury: Open-toed shoes like flip flops leave your feet exposed to potential injuries. Stubbed toes, cuts, and bruises are common complaints among frequent flip flop wearers.
- Aggravation of Existing Conditions: For those with pre-existing foot conditions, flip flops can exacerbate the problem. Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or diabetic foot issues can worsen with prolonged flip flop use.
- Poor Shock Absorption: Unlike supportive athletic shoes, flip flops offer little to no shock absorption. This can lead to heel pain, especially when walking on hard surfaces for extended periods.
How to Avoid Foot Pain in Flip Flops or Sandals
While it's not necessary to completely abandon flip flops, moderation is key. The podiatrists at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute recommend:
- Limiting flip flop wear to short periods and appropriate settings (e.g., beach, pool)
- Choosing flip flops with some arch support and a slightly cushioned sole
- Opting for supportive sandals for longer walks
- Regularly stretching your feet and ankles to counteract the effects of flip flops
If you're experiencing heel pain, ankle pain, or any foot-related discomfort, it's crucial to consult with an Albuquerque podiatrist. The team at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute is equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions.
Must-Know Tips to Avoid a “Flip-Flop Fiasco”
Find out some easy ways to prevent injury from wearing flip-flops this summer, from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). For more information on healthy flip-flops, visit www.apma.org/seal.
