To go to the beach, the pool or simply run an errand, flip-flops are often preferred. However, these iconic summer shoes are not as harmless as they seem.
Blisters, sprains, pain… Worn incorrectly, they can quickly turn a summer stroll into a bad memory. So, should we avoid them? Not necessarily. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency physician and medical director of True Medical, shares the right reflexes to adopt.
Don’t wear them all day
Flip-flops are light, easy to put on and let your feet breathe. However, they are not made for a long day of walking.
“Flip-flops should be reserved for short, occasional use, such as the beach, the swimming pool, the shower or short trips, because they do not support the foot well. This lack of support encourages friction between the big toe and the strap, which can cause blisters, irritation and sometimes less stable walking, with a risk of falling or false movement”explains Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
In other words, it is better to consider them as auxiliary shoes than as everyday allies.
Choose flip-flops that better support the foot
Not all flip-flops are the same: some models are less risky than others…
“To limit these inconveniences, it is better to choose flip-flops with a non-slip sole, wide enough straps and a good size, so that they fit the foot better. It is also preferable to avoid wearing them for a long time or for walking a lot, especially if you already have sensitive feet, fungus, blisters or pain in the foot, hip or back”advises the medical director of True Medical.
With heat, irritations are increased
When it’s very hot, your feet sweat more. Result: friction is greater and blisters appear more easily.
“In hot weather, flip-flops are not necessarily prohibited, but perspiration and humidity increase friction, so discomfort can be more frequent. The most prudent thing is to keep them for special occasions and alternate them with ventilated, more stable shoes, which protect the feet more.”recalls Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
Beware of sprains!
We often associate flip-flops with irritation, but they can cause many other inconveniences.
“Beyond blisters and irritation, prolonged wear can also lead to sprains, false movements or even stress fractures of the toes in some people. This is because flip-flops modify walking and poorly absorb shock, which can worsen foot, knee, hip or back pain.”alerts the doctor.
By compensating for the lack of support, the whole body can in fact be used.
In certain situations, the complications are increased tenfold
In the morning, have you gotten into the habit of running in your flip-flops to catch the bus? Bad idea. This is precisely the kind of situation to avoid.
“If you walk a lot, if you run, if you wear your flip-flops on long journeys or if you already have a fragile foot or joint sensitivity, be careful! The risk of pain and fractures is increased. In this situation, it is therefore better to choose more stable sandals or open shoes which better support the foot. And never run in flip-flops!”insists Dr Gérald Kierzek.
Even a few meters in flip-flops is enough to increase the risk of a wrong move or sprain.
Some people should do without flip flops
For some people, a simple blister can quickly degenerate. Reason enough to ban wearing flip-flops.
“For people at risk, particularly in cases of diabetes, vascular deficit or fragile feet, flip-flops are even less recommended, because even a small injury can have significant consequences. In times of heat, the best compromise therefore remains to use them only occasionally, then to choose ventilated but more secure shoes for the rest of the day”concludes Dr Gérald Kierzek.
If you are concerned, it is better to reserve flip-flops near the swimming pool or the beach and opt for open shoes the rest of the time – much more stable. Your feet and joints will thank you!