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<< Previous   of   Next >>   ADVERTISEMENT   Related Stories • We're all thumbs 7/22/08   CONTACT THE HERALD Melanie Munk, Features Editor munk@heraldnet.com   Published: Tuesday, July 22, 2008 Foot doctors in a flap over flimsy flip-flop fad As versatile as they are comfortable, the rubbery sandals are worn by the young and old, the fashion conscious and fashion oblivious. People don them with suits, three-piece and swim varieties. Too bad, then, that podiatrists and researchers say flip-flops hurt our feet and lead to lower-leg injuries. Researchers at Auburn University, studying the bio-mechanics of flip-flop use compared against that of athletic shoes, found that the distinct change of gait among sandal-wearers puts strain on the arch, ankle, even the hips and lower back. "There's a larger angle in your ankle in flip-flops," said Justin Shroyer, the lead researcher. "That could be because people are gripping with their toes so the flip-flop won't fly off." That confirms an earlier study by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, showing a rise in flip-flop-related heel pain among patients ages 15 to 25. Podiatrists say flip-flops -- and even more stable sandals -- should be worn only for short durations. Flip-flops do not absorb the impact of steps, forcing the arch, heel calf or back to bear the brunt of the force. So, it's perfectly fine to waddle from the pool to the car in flip-flops, not so great to wear them to work for eight hours. High-end brands with higher price tags, such as Teva, Merrell and Bite, support much like an athletic shoe and can be worn longr, says Tracy Basso, a Davis, Calif., podiatrist and past president of the California Podiatric Medical Association. Sacramento Bee FLIP TIPS DO: Look for flip-flops made of high-quality, soft leather to minimize the potential for blisters and other irritation. Look for flip-flops that carry the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance, which are those that allow for the most normal foot function. Gently bend the flip-flop from end to end, ensuring that it bends naturally at the ball of the foot. Shoes should never fold in half. Ensure that your foot doesn't hang off of the edge of the flip-flop. DON'T: Wear them year after year. Toss them if the soles are severely worn out . Ignore irritation between toes, where the toe thong fits. It can lead to blisters and even worse irritation. Wear walk long distances in them. Even the sturdiest ones offer little shock absorption and arch support. Do yard work in them. Wear a shoe that fully protects the foot when mowing the lawn or using a string trimmer. Play sports in flip-flops. Source: American Podiatric Medical Association.

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