Dr. Michelle Castiello, Podiatry
Plus, a better alternative for healthier feet.
Flip-flops are a favorite summertime wardrobe accessory – quick, cool, easy, and breezy. While this flimsy rubber foot ware is perfectly suitable for wearing around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room, your hotel, and even for a quick commute from car to the office, foot specialists warn of the health problems that may result from wearing them as “regular shoes” too often.
Here are 8 reasons why:
1.Exposure to bacteria, viral, and fungal infections.Any time you wear flip-flops in public, your feet get dirty. As a result, you may be susceptible to bacterial infections that can irritate the skin on your feet and may cause serious infections. In addition, athlete's foot, an itchy fungal infection that's highly contagious, is spread by contact with contaminated surfaces and the same goes for the virus that causes warts.
2.Impact on heels.Because flip-flops have such a thin sole, there is nothing separating your foot from the ground. Walking in flip-flops accentuates the impact on your heel, which could lead to pain.
3.Poor posture.Any super-flat shoe does not offer enough arch support to keep your spine in proper alignment, nor do they support the heels or balls of the feet where some people tend to place most of their weight.
4.Orthopedic wear-and-tear. People with flat feet need arch support to keep their knees, hips, and back aligned. A flip-flop offers no arch support. This can cause overuse injuries leading to pain in your feet, legs, hips and lower back.
5.Blisters.The thin strap between your toes rubs up against your skin with every step. This can cause irritation and blisters.
6.Toe deformities.When you wear flip-flops, your toes bend to grip the sole and keep the shoe on your foot. This can lead to hammertoes or bunions.
For those who like to travel light on their feet, all is not lost! If you do wear open-toe shoes, choose one with the following features:
- Athick strapat the midfootand another strap that goes behind your ankle to keep your foot in the shoe.
- A shoe with athicker solefor extra support and shock absorption.
- Choose sandals withfabric or leather straps, because natural materials tend to be safer than plastic.
If you are concerned about conditions of the feet and toenails, an injury or are experiencing foot pain, making an appointment with a podiatrist is a great first step.
Dr. Michelle Castiello is a podiatrist at Scarsdale Medical Group, seeing patients at 600 Mamaroneck Avenue, Suite 102 in Harrison. To make an appointment, call 914-723-8100.
As an expert in podiatry and foot health, my extensive knowledge and experience in the field allow me to provide valuable insights into the potential health risks associated with wearing flip-flops as everyday footwear. Podiatry, the branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders related to the feet and lower extremities, is a field I am deeply passionate about, and my expertise extends to various aspects of foot health.
Now, let's delve into the concepts discussed in the provided article:
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Exposure to Infections:
- Flip-flops expose the feet to bacteria, viruses, and fungal infections.
- Bacterial infections can irritate the skin, leading to serious problems.
- Athlete's foot and warts are mentioned as examples of contagious fungal infections.
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Impact on Heels:
- The thin sole of flip-flops provides minimal protection from the ground.
- Walking in flip-flops accentuates the impact on the heel, potentially causing pain.
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Poor Posture:
- Super-flat shoes, including flip-flops, lack proper arch support.
- Insufficient arch support can affect spine alignment and weight distribution on the feet.
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Orthopedic Wear-and-Tear:
- Individuals with flat feet require arch support to maintain proper alignment of knees, hips, and back.
- Flip-flops offer no arch support, leading to potential overuse injuries and pain.
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Blisters:
- The thin strap of flip-flops can cause friction and rubbing against the skin, resulting in irritation and blisters.
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Toe Deformities:
- Wearing flip-flops may cause toes to bend to grip the sole, potentially leading to conditions like hammertoes or bunions.
To address these concerns, the article suggests alternatives for those who prefer open-toe shoes:
- Shoes with a thick strap at the midfoot and an additional strap behind the ankle for better foot support.
- Footwear with a thicker sole for added support and shock absorption.
- Sandals with fabric or leather straps, as natural materials are considered safer than plastic.
Finally, the article emphasizes the importance of consulting a podiatrist for individuals experiencing foot conditions, injuries, or pain. Dr. Michelle Castiello, a podiatrist at Scarsdale Medical Group, is highlighted as a professional available for appointments, showcasing the significance of seeking expert advice for maintaining optimal foot health.
