Love Flip-Flops? 4 Ways to Deal with Achy, Tired Tootsies

Posted by: Self (Healthy SELF)

 Summer is synonymous with flip-flops, sandals and other liberating footwear. Unfortunately, the demise of close-toed shoes during the warmer months isn't all that good for your tootsies.

"Flip-flops are typically not the ‘healthiest’ footwear option for your feet," says Marcia Kilgore, founder of FitFlop, the shoe line that offers flip-flops with extra cushioning and support (we've tried 'em and we're fans!). 

"Regular flip-flops tend to offer no arch support, heel cushioning or shock absorption, which can lead to foot pain, tendonitis and injury from tripping. Your toes are also encouraged to 'curl' to keep the shoe on your foot, resulting in the dreaded 'flop,'" she adds.

Don't worry -- we're not asking you to abandon flip-flops (or sandals) altogether, but we are suggesting you give your feet a little extra TLC this summer. Here's how:

1. Get support - If you're dead-set on wearing flip-flops, opt for brands that offer additional support. Sure, they may cost a few extra bucks, but what you'll save in pain and foot-aches are worth the pocketbook hit. FitFlops are just one example, but we think they're a darn good one. They carry the American Podiatric Medical Association's Seal of Acceptance, and they're ergonomically designed to provide superior cushioning, shock absorption and arch support -- and that can help bring relief to aching heels, arches and forefeet.

2. Go the distance - If you're going to be walking all day (amusement park, anyone?), wear sneakers! Can't give up your bling-studded sandals? We hear you! Just try to reserve them for events and activities that don't require a lot of walking. Otherwise, you'll end up with sore feet, blistered toes and your favorite sandals will go into early retirement. What's worse, you'll have to rely on ugly (but comfy) footwear for at least a few days.

3. Get off your feet - We hate stating the obvious, but sometimes it bears repeating: When your dogs are barking, your back is aching and you're feeling pain all over your body, it's time to sit down!

4. Stand tall - For most of us, poor posture is a given: Our head sits in front of our bodies, our shoulders are hunched forward and our bodies are out of alignment. To correct this default position, focus on keeping your ears over your shoulders and your shoulders over your hips. "If you can envision a little string that travels through your midline, that's good posture," says Karen Jacobs, clinical professor at Boston University College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. A little exercise: Flex your foot toward your shin to help strengthen the muscles in front of the lower leg that help support the arch of the foot.

Please call the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center office anytime @702-878-2455 between Monday – Friday and we would be happy to set up an appointment for you.  Please visit our website @ www.FallCenter.com or www.walkwithdiabetes.com.   The Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center has Diagnostic imaging:  Digital X-Rays, Ultrasound or Advanced Imaging will be used to aid in the diagnosis.

Dr. Anthony Ricciardi at the Foot, Ankle & Lower Leg Center has completed training in endoscopic/minimally invasive surgery for chronic heel pain and nerve pain, foot and ankle joint replacement for restoring pain free motion, arthroscopic surgery, bunion surgery, fracture repair, flat foot correction, external fixation for complex deformities and extensive experience in peripheral nerve surgery including diabetic peripheral neuropathy and reconstructive surgery of previously failed foot surgical procedures.  In addition to his surgical training Dr. Ricciardi focuses on sports medicine of the foot and ankle through regenerative techniques using the patient’s own blood/platelets for healing chronic foot and ankle problems (pain) as a result of repetitive sport injuries.  This cutting edge technology enables patients to continue training with little or no down time.  Dr. Ricciardi continues to be active in teaching and training other podiatric surgeons on innovative surgical techniques in foot surgery.  Dr. Ricciardi is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and Fellow of the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons.  Dr. Ricciardi’s vision is to bring each patient the most current state of the Art Technology and personalized treatment options to meet their Foot and Ankle needs (from conservative care to surgical options).  Dr. Ricciardi believes in quality service and puts his patients first!