flip-flops2Kayleigh Johnston,  a lively eighth grader feels that wearing flips flops are fun and just a part of her daily wardrobe. “I like them because they are easy to put on and you don’t have to tie them. They are nice to wear on a hot day,” she said. While flip flops are popular among many, these soft sole shoes serve no care to your feet and are actually quite harmful to them. With nothing around the toes, heel or ankle, your feet are very inclined to developing heel spurs, plantar fasciitis and toe pain.
 
Additionally flip flops can lead to a condition known as pronation which creates extra movement in the bones of the feet. This can lead to foot arch collapse and arthritis in the feet at an early age. A surprising consequence of wearing flip flops is the risk of developing foot skin cancer. During the summer, constant exposure of sun on your feet is bad for the skin. You should apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to your feet every time you wear flip flops to protect your skin.
 
Speaking to a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Mozen of Foot Health Care Associates help you better understand the steps you can take to ensure that your feet stay healthy while wearing flip flops.
 
Flip-Flops and Feet
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result; make sure you are purchasing your flip-flops from a respected brand too. Replacing your flip-flops every 3-4 months is suggested to provide maximum support and protection for your feet.
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices which are located in Southfield, MI, Livonia, MI, and Novi, MI.  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
 
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