May 2024

Flip-flops are a popular choice for casual footwear, especially as the weather warms up. However, their impact on foot health is a subject of ongoing debate. Typically, flip-flops offer minimal support to the arches of the feet, which can lead to problems such as plantar fasciitis or other forms of foot pain. The design of flip-flops forces the toes to grip the soles in order to keep the footwear in place while walking. This unnatural holding action can alter the way one walks, potentially causing long-term changes in foot structure and gait. The lack of cushioning and support also means that the feet are more vulnerable to injuries from stepping on sharp objects or from the stress of walking on hard surfaces. If you enjoy wearing flip-flops and are experiencing foot discomfort or changes in your walking pattern, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to determine the best footwear for your needs.

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 Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. 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 one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It is characterized primarily by a sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel. This pain is often more pronounced in the morning when taking the first steps of the day, or after long periods of sitting or standing. The pain may flare up with intense activity but typically worsens after, not during, the exercise. Other symptoms include swelling and tenderness in the heel area. Plantar fasciitis is particularly prevalent in runners, overweight individuals, and those whose jobs require long hours on their feet. Wearing shoes with inadequate support exacerbates the problem in those with plantar fasciitis. Effective treatment involves rest, stretching exercises, and proper footwear. If you have heel pain and suspect plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, for care. 

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 Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. 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 one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As we age, the risk of experiencing a fall increases, posing a significant threat to independence and mobility among individuals aged 65 and older. Falls can lead to severe consequences, often affecting the feet, including fractures, reduced quality of life, and loss of independence. Therefore, prioritizing falls prevention is paramount. Several risk factors contribute to falls in older adults, including muscle weakness, balance issues, medication side effects, and environmental hazards. Implementing preventive measures, such as regular exercise to improve strength and balance, removing tripping hazards at home, ensuring proper lighting, and reviewing medications with a healthcare provider, can significantly reduce the risk of falls. A podiatrist can assess foot health and address issues, such as wearing improper footwear and having foot pain, which can contribute to instability. Additionally, they can provide guidance on proper foot care and recommend custom orthotic devices to improve balance and mobility. If you are a senior and want to learn more about falls prevention and what you can do to protect yourself, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you safeguard your independence and well-being.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ensuring the right shoe size is essential for comfort and foot health, especially when shopping online. Fortunately, measuring your shoe size at home is a simple process. Begin by gathering a ruler, a piece of paper, and a pen. Place the paper flat on the ground against a wall. Stand on the paper with your heel touching the wall. Using the pen, mark the longest part of your foot at the tip of your longest toe. Measure the distance from the edge of the paper to the mark in centimeters or inches. Repeat this process for the other foot as foot sizes may differ slightly. Finally, compare the measurements to a shoe size chart provided by shoe manufacturers or online retailers. Remember that shoe sizes may vary between brands, so it is essential to refer to specific sizing guides for accurate measurements. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain associated with the shoes you wear, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can treat foot conditions and offer additional guidance on how to find the right shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.