The Lowdown on Flip Flops

Contributing Editor Melina Papadakis shares some seasonal footwear advice.

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With the temperatures rising, fashionistas are kicking off their heels and slipping on comfortable and airy gladiator sandals and decorative flip flops. Unfortunately, while they may feel they're giving their feet a rest, New York City podiatrist Dr. Oliver Zong warns that flip flops and flats may do more harm than good.

According to Dr. Zong, "Instead of mimicking the movement of walking barefoot and allowing the foot to naturally roll from heel to toe, a soft-soled shoe actually creates more work for the muscles of the foot therefore tiring them out faster."

During the summer, Dr. Zong often sees patients with symptoms of heel pain, plantar fasciitis, or tendonitis. In fact, a new study published by Auburn University has found that flip flop wearers took shorter steps and their heels hit the ground with less vertical force than when the same walkers wore athletic shoes.

"A soft-soled shoe generally does not allow the foot to naturally roll from heel to toe," said Dr. Zong, "since it generally has a softer midfoot - and the lack of support will generally cause more injury then good."

The study also found that people wearing flip flops don't raise their toes up as much as the legs swing forward to take a step. Dr Zong says that soft-soled shoes call for more gripping of the toes during the gait cycle, and it can cause overuse of the tendons and lead to injury.

To remedy these problems, he recommends patients return to support shoes such as sneakers with a sturdy sole and heel. In the long run, Dr. Zong recommends limiting flip flop use to a few hours a day - and the same goes for women wearing high heels.

What kind of shoes do you wear? Do you ever sacrifice comfort for fashion? Let us know!

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