Flip-flops are certainly a popular shoe style. However, they are not a completely healthy option due to the lack of support that they provide. Many patients often wonder what they can wear besides flip-flops. The answer is that there are a variety of different summer shoes that a person might consider wearing. For example, a person might wear a supportive pair of sandals that have a strap around the back of the foot. A person also might consider wearing espadrilles instead of flip-flops. These are essentially canvas shoes. The benefit is that, unlike flip flops, the feet need not scrunch up to keep the shoe on the foot. Also, it can be important to select shoes that provide adequate support. If you are someone that is looking for an alternative to flip flops, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for more information.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The plantar fascia is found on the bottom of the foot. It is a long portion of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and can become quite painful if it becomes irritated. A heel injury or gradual wear and tear may lead to developing plantar fasciitis. This foot condition is defined as inflammation or tears that happen to the plantar fascia, which can occur from wearing shoes that do not have adequate cushioning in the heel area. It can also happen to people who stand on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day, causing excess pressure on the heel and surrounding areas. Many people enjoy running and jogging, and it is helpful to be aware of how this can negatively impact the heels. Pregnant women may develop plantar fasciitis, as a result of the added weight the feet must endure. Temporary relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and walking is kept to a minimum. A podiatrist is a specialist that can effectively treat plantar fasciitis, and it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can offer you the treatment option that is best for you.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Having dry skin on the heels is common. It can lead to a foot condition that is known as cracked heels, and be quite uncomfortable. Untreated cracks in the skin can develop into fissures, which may bleed and become infected. The feet do not have oil glands, and they can dry out quicker than other parts of the body. Cracked heels can be caused by weaning shoes that have an open back, such as flip-flops or sandals. These types of shoes may put additional pressure on the heels' fat pads, and the skin may dry out. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to developing cracked heels. These can include psoriasis, eczema, diabetes, or thyroid disorders. Mild relief may be found when the feet are frequently soaked in warm water, followed by removing any dead skin, which is referred to as exfoliating. Additionally, applying a good moisturizer may help the skin to feel soft and cause any dead skin to naturally fall off. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional treatment methods.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing shoes that are too tight can either cause foot conditions or make existing problems more painful. For that reason, being aware of a proper fit when buying shoes for any reason is important, especially in this era of online shopping. Among the many foot problems related to wearing tight shoes are bunions, corns, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails. When purchasing shoes, measure your feet properly beforehand to have both the correct length and width. Be sure that your foot does not feel pinched or cramped within the shoe, in addition to ensuring the toes are not being squeezed together. The structure and materials of the shoe itself are as important as its appearance. The width and depth of the toe box should allow ample room for the toes to move freely in, and the heel should slip easily into the back of the shoe. Check for adequate support and cushioning, particularly if you have bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet. When you try on the shoes, it is beneficial to wear the foot coverings you would have on while wearing them. If you are having difficulty finding the proper shoes to fit your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for more information. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from East Ocean Podiatry . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Deerfield Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.