Are There Healthy Flip Flops ?

The summer is coming and the weather is definitely getting warmer. We have traded our sweaters and pants for shorts and tanks. We also have kicked off our sensible cold winter shoes and now need to

look for sensible summer sandals. But are there summer sandals that are good for you feet? YES.

In general,  the concern with flip flops is the lack of support. The flimsy rubber flip flops offer no arch support and result in overworking  of the muscles in the legs and feet. As a result the toes curl, the arch ligaments can be strained, or you can develop tendinitis around the ankle. In addition, the plantar fascia can be put under strain which can result in heel pain. Also, flip flops tend to be a flat rubber mat which can cause ankle sprains. The lack of a heel cup in a flip flop also allows the heel to move excessively and can allow the ankle to roll and  be more susceptible to a sprain. 

Newer sandals have been engineered to have built in arch support or custom orthotics, such as Sandalistas by Aetrex or Dr. Comfort flip flops. In general cork soles are better than most rubber soles. Look for solid straps or Velcro straps to hold your foot securely in the sandal.

For more information regarding healthy flip flops please watch this informative video from APMA.

Dr. "Sandie" Grulke
http://www.podiatrycarespecialists.com/