Are Flip-Flops Really “Dangerous?”

Summer’s approaching and with the warmer weather, flip-flops will be the standard fare for many. In fact up to 65% of us wear flip-flops in the summer. And why not? They are easy to slip on, come in tons of colors, styles and prices, and they keep your feet cool. But they are also responsible for thousands of flip-flop related injuries annually, with estimates as high as 200,000 each year. (World-wide.)

Well, I’ve never thought of flip-flops as being “dangerous” but after reading the reasons why so many end up seeking medical attention, I can see why medical professionals think so. Of course as with most things in life, common sense and moderation can help prevent or cut down on your chances of flip-flop mishaps.

THE “DANGERS” –

And while flip-flops do give you basic protection to the bottom of you feet and help prevent you from catching athlete’s foot or plantar warts from public showers, podiatrists blame flip-flops for blisters, bacteria, viral infections, bad posture, shooting pains, bunion formation and exacerbation, hammertoe issues, and lack of arch support on these innocent looking sandals.

Flip-flops are considered a driving hazard too since they can come off the foot easily and lodge under the brake or gas pedal. Other hazards include stubbed toes, glass cuts, broken toes, torn nails, sunburn, and muscle strain and fatigue. And when your feet are exposed you are more likely to get insect bites.

Flip-flops aren’t meant to be worn when hiking, playing sports, or mowing the yard (or operating that weed whacker.) In fact the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends wearing shoes that fully cover and protect the foot when operating a lawn mower, weed whacker, auto, or even when riding an amusement park ride, horse, or escalator.

Does this mean you shouldn’t wear flip-flops? Of course not, and even if I said yes, we’re still going to wear them. But there are a few things you can do to decrease your chances of a “flip-flop mishap.”

• Keep your flip-flops clean, especially when they are new and you’re more likely to get a blister. A blister, if it opens, is especially vulnerable for infection. And if possible, wash your feet before coming into the house after wearing flip-flops since they’ve been exposed to dirt, bacteria, fungi, and who knows what else!

• Wear for short periods at a time or when you’ll be more sedentary versus going for a long hike.

• Put sunscreen on your feet.

• Wear on nice days versus rainy since your odds of slipping are higher with flip-flops.

• Consider spending more money (gasp – can’t believe I wrote that!) Cheap can mean sub-standard materials that tend to break down, aren’t very sturdy or could even be toxic.

• Replace often if wearing the “cheaper” ones since they can wear down quicker.

• Avoid one size fits all flip-flops.

DO LOOK for flip-flops that offer arch and heel support, with a soft toe thong and shock-absorbing materials if possible. Rubber and plastic materials tend to be the cheapest but they also offer the least foot support. Look for materials like soft leather if possible. Thicker soles will give you more support and protection.

THE BEND TEST – If your flip-flops bend easily in the middle, they aren’t going to give you any support.

Here are a few more things to be aware of when wearing flip-flops.

http://www.cosmopolitan.com/health-fitness/news/a39188/flip-flops-are-bad-for-you/

Looking to buy a really great pair of flip-flops? The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) has an extensive list of brands and styles they have given their Seal Of Acceptance/Approval to. Let me warn you, they aren’t cheap! But if you wear your flip-flops all the time, practically live in them, then 50 to 70 dollars might be money well spent.

http://www.apma.org/learn/CompanyProductsList.cfm?navItemNumber=545

Have you ever had an accident due to wearing flip-flops? We’d love to hear your comments.