Fun (and Not so Fun) Facts about Flip-Flops

At Goldsmith Podiatry, we know that flip-flops are a popular style of summer footwear among our Manhattan patients. This easy-to-wear shoe style is a matter of some controversy in the podiatric world. Read on for this summer staple's good, bad, and history.

Fact: Flip-flops have been around a long time. Some variation of this simple sandal style is in almost every ancient culture from Greece to Africa.

Fact: The “modern-day” flip-flop first became popular in the U.S. after World War II. This shoe style was prevalent in Japan, and soldiers brought them back as souvenirs. In an effort to rebuild their economy, the Japanese capitalized on their rubber resources and began mass producing what we know as the traditional flip-flop.

Fact: Flip-flops can help protect your feet in some situations. Flip-flops are preferable to going barefoot, especially for short periods like heading to your spot in the sand at the beach or walking out to get the mail. In these cases, they can put a barrier between you and hot sand that can burn your feet or sharp objects that might cut you. They really shine when you’re in public places that tend to be moist and see a lot of foot traffic. Wearing them at the community pool, gym, or nail salon can prevent you from contracting a fungal infection.

Fact: Flip-flops can harm your feet in several ways. Prolonged wearing of flip-flops can lead to heel pain and plantar fasciitis. It is because they have no arch support. As your arch flattens, it puts excess pressure on the plantar fascia resulting in heel pain. Other potential problems that arise from wearing flip-flops include:

• Ankle sprains

• Trips and falls

• Blisters

• Hip and back pain (due to the arch issue)

• Fungal infections

• Shin splints

Fact: Better flip-flops are available. Fortunately, due to their incredible popularity, many shoe manufacturers are upping their game and making flip-flops designed to provide the same ease of wear without all the adverse side effects. Look for styles with a built-up arch and a more secure structure around your foot.

If you believe your feet hurt due to flip-flop use, or you’d like more information about flip-flop styles that are not harmful to your feet. Contact our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002 to consult with our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff. The foot doctor can make recommendations about footwear that will be best for your feet.