Monday, July 8, 2013

IT'S FLIP FLOP SEASON



HOW TO WEAR FLIP FLOPS SAFELY

It's the time of year when we grab the easiest to put on, the most readily available, and frequently, the most comfortable footwear we can find, and they're known as flip flops. However, there are some things to take into consideration, so I consulted the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) for their insight. And because of their popularity, I thought they deserved a front page mention. 

  • DO shop for a flip-flop made of high quality, soft leather. Leather minimizes the potential for blisters and other types of irritation.
  • DO gently bend the flip-flop from end to end, ensuring it bends at the ball of the foot. Shoes of any kind should never fold in half.
  • DO make sure that your foot does not hang off the edge of the flip-flop.
  • DO wear a sturdy pair of flip-flops when walking around a public pool, at the beach, in hotel rooms, and in locker room areas. Walking barefoot can expose foot soles to plantar warts and athlete's foot.

  • DON'T re-wear flip-flops year after year. Inspect older pairs for wear. If they show signs of severe wear, discard them.
  • DON'T ignore irritation between toes where the toe thong fits. This can lead to blisters and possible infections.
  • DON'T wear flip-flops while walking long distances. Even the sturdiest flip-flops offer little in terms of shock absorption and arch support.
  • DON'T do yard work while wearing flip-flops. Always wear a shoe that fully protects feet when doing outside activities such as mowing the lawn or using weed eater.
  • DON'T play sports in flip-flops. This practice can lead to twisting of the foot or ankle, as well as sprains and breaks.
Please check our product page for specific recommendations for flip-flops. I have specifically sourced footwear that offers shock absorption and arch support, and some are even stylish!!!

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