Don't be deceived — flip-flops may look adorable, but they aren't harmless. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), wearing flip-flops nonstop can lead to a host of foot problems, including blisters, stubbed toes and tendinitis.
Although flip-flops and summer seem synonymous, it's a good idea to ditch the flimsy footwear and switch to more sturdy, athletic shoes when:
-Walking long distances
-Playing sports
-Gardening or mowing the lawn
Sturdy flip-flops are appropriate when you are at public pools, locker rooms, beaches or hotel rooms. Going barefoot in these settings increases your risk of contracting infections, such as athlete's foot or plantar warts.
When purchasing flip-flops, choose those that:
-Have some support (if you can bend them in half, they are not supportive)
-Are made of soft leather (to minimize blisters)
-Carry the APMA's Seal of Acceptance (evaluated by their podiatrists)
Source: Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, July 2013
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