Flip Flops are among the most popular footwear that I've seen on the Seacoast beaches of New Hampshire. Although there are some benefits to Flip Flops like protecting one's feet while walking on hot sand, they should be worn with caution.
Flip Flops have a thin sole and very little arch support to protect the feet. Wearing Flip Flops can impair biomechanics while walking and lead to pain and inflammation. Couple this with walking on loose sand and you have a recipe for foot pain.
If one decides to wear Flip Flops they should be alternated with a good supportive shoe on a daily basis.
If any of the following symptoms appear while in Flip Flops, they should be discontinued.
- Heel pain, especially when stepping out of bed in the morning. This can be a sign of Plantar Fasciitis, a painful condition caused by chronic inflammation. Heel pain can also be caused by systemic medical conditions.
- Forefoot Pain: The lack of cushioning in a Flip Flop can lead to increased trauma to the forefoot. This can manifest itself as Capsulitis, Stress Fracture(s), or a Morton's Neuroma.
- Repeated Toenail Trauma: The open nature of a Flip Flop can lead to repeated trauma to the toenails. This can cause Ingrown Toenails, Fungal Toenail Infections, and/or permanent deformity of the Toenail.
- Dry, Cracked Heels: Yes, Flip Flops can cause Heel Fissures. The open backed area of the Flip Flop allows the skin's natural oils and moisture to escape causing severely cracked heels.
- Diabetics should avoid Flip Flops altogether. The probable lack of adequate circulation, feeling, and an increase risk of infection put the Diabetic at high risk when wearing these. A better alternative at the beach are Aquasocks.
I hope this has helped with any concerns one may have had about Flip Flops. Feel free to email me at drbriannagy.com with any questions, comments or concerns.
Dr. Brian Nagy