Even though flip flops are a go-to footwear for many casual outings, these trusty open-toed soles might end up doing more harm to your feet than you realize. While these open-toed shoes can be quite stylish and convenient to slip on, it’s important to wear them sparingly. If worn too frequently, your favorite flip flops can lead to severe foot pain.

Ankle, Back, and Hip Pain

Flip flops aren’t securely attached to your feet since they don’t have any back straps or side support, which will make you change the way you walk. You may not even notice when it happens. You might start taking shorter steps to keep the soles on your feet. Eventually, you’ll start dragging your feet and hitting your heels to the ground with less vertical force than if you were walking normally. These movements can throw off your natural balance and trigger pain in the ankles, knees, hips, and back.

Plantar Fasciitis

The soles on most flip flops are flat and flimsy, with little support for your natural arch. Their flat design, combined with the lack of back or side support, also makes them prone to slipping off your feet at the slightest misstep. As you walk, the muscles in your feet and toes begin to work overtime to keep those flimsy flip flops from falling off. Those overused foot muscles can eventually lead to painful plantar fasciitis. This injury can cause severe foot pain, especially when trying to walk or run.

Tendonitis

Constant flip flop wear can also lead to an overuse injury like tendonitis. Tendonitis occurs when some parts of the foot are working overtime to compensate for the lack of support, causing the tendons and muscles in the foot to become strained and irritated. This condition often occurs in the tendons around the ankle, top of the foot, and in the calf. It is typically felt during movement and can be especially painful when walking or running. If left untreated, it can also eventually lead to muscle tears that will exacerbate the pain in your feet.

Better Choice Flip Flops

If you’re ready to ditch those old sandals and find something more comfortable, here are a few tips to help you pick out your next pair of summer slip-ons.

The Right Shoe Size: Make sure you find a pair that fits properly. Your toes and heels should be fully on the sole, leaving nothing to hang off.

Make sure you find a pair that fits properly. Your toes and heels should be fully on the sole, leaving nothing to hang off. Durable Material: The shoe should only bend at the ball of the foot. Bending right down the middle means the shoes are too flimsy. Opt for shoes made of durable materials like leather or thick rubber. These materials are both more comfortable and durable than flip flops with thin plastic soles.

The shoe should only bend at the ball of the foot. Bending right down the middle means the shoes are too flimsy. Opt for shoes made of durable materials like leather or thick rubber. These materials are both more comfortable and durable than flip flops with thin plastic soles. More Straps for Better Support: It’s best to look for shoes with a back strap or multiple straps to keep your foot nice and snug while taking the pressure off your toes.

Fast Foot Pain Relief

Foot pain is a very common ailment that our providers treat. At Airrosti, your provider will conduct a thorough injury assessment to help diagnose the underlying cause of your foot pain, provide hands-on treatment, and create customized rehab exercises to strengthen your feet and keep you moving. If you find yourself with aching feet, schedule an appointment with Airrosti today and get back to doing the things you love most.

If you prefer to connect virtually, consider scheduling a remote telehealth appointment.

Give us a call at (800) 404-6050 to schedule your virtual appointment today.

Read our Medical Disclaimer here.