Podiatrist in Plano, TX: Sandals vs. Flip-Flops

Summer is here, and many people are breaking out their flip-flops to cool their feet down! While flip-flops may be the go-to summer shoe, they’re not good for your foot and ankle health. Thankfully, a few alternatives can provide the same comfort and airflow without sacrificing your feet. Our podiatrist in Plano, TX, explains more below.

Why Are Flip-Flops Bad?

Flip-flops can be worn in moderation (such as at the pool or beach for a limited amount of time), but frequently wearing them can cause damage. They offer no arch support and have no padding to cushion your feet when you walk, which leads to excess pressure on the bones and pain in the heel and arch of the foot. Additionally, people also tend to grip the strap between the big toe and second toe to keep the flip-flop from slipping off. This causes pain in the toes and other foot muscles.

Conditions Flip-Flops Cause

Flip-flops can cause poor posture since they don’t offer the proper support. They can also cause:

Increased risk of foot and ankle injury
Plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the arch of the foot)
Heel pain
Hammertoes and stubbed toes
Nail and foot fungus
Blisters where the strap rubs against the toe

In addition to foot, ankle, and back problems, flip-flops make it dangerous to drive and make it more likely for you to trip and fall.

Alternatives to Flip-Flops

If you want to keep the open feeling of flip-flops but don’t want to wear sneakers during the summer, look for sandals with more support. Arch support, ankle straps, and additional surface straps can prevent foot pain while keeping you cool. Some alternative options include espadrilles, slip-on shoes, and orthotic sandals. Ensure that you have plenty of arch support and that they fit you perfectly when you try them on!

Contact Our Podiatrist in Plano, TX, Today To Learn More!

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about hammertoe and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact Dallas Podiatry Works, with a convenient podiatry office in Plano, TX, by calling 972.564.8556 or by clicking here.

The doctor has great “bedside manners” when talking to patients. Great staff and comfortable atmosphere.

Derrick W.

The staff at Dallas Podiatry Works could not have been more courteous, helpful, and professional in doing their job. They made me feel comfortable when I was there, which is certainly appreciated. They answered all the questions that I had and just made each visit the most pleasurable that it could be. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of foot care.

Joseph B.

I would highly recommend Dr. Brook to anyone with foot problems–especially problems that stump other podiatrists. He really is very caring and very knowledgeable.

Jeannette H.

Dr. Joel Brook and the staff were nice and helpful. Though I was a new patient, I got right in as soon as they were open in my preferred location. They diagnosed the problem and provided medicines along with a perfect gel bandage so I could keep exercising while my toes healed. My toes already hurt less and look a little better each day. If I have future issues, I will be a repeat customer. Here’s hoping I don’t, but at least I know my feet are in good hands.

Meryl E.

I visited this office for an ingrown toe nail a few years ago. After seeing another doctor, who made it worse, he referred me to Dallas Podiatry Works. The doctor there was able to fix my problem. I’m not great with reviews, all I can tell you is that this doctor and staff will have you up and running or doing whatever it is you do in no time. You will be in great hands. You’d be a fool not to use this doctor. Now its time to visit him again for the other toe.

Google User

Been having bad ankle pains for 6 months was referred here and it was a great visit ladies in the front desk medical assistants and the Doctor were all very friendly and make you feel very comfortable.