Flip-flops are a popular choice for casual wear, but they can cause serious foot problems over time. Most flip-flops offer little to no arch or heel support, which can lead to strain on the feet and ankles. Wearing them for extended periods of time may contribute to plantar fasciitis, heel pain, tendonitis, and flat feet. The lack of stability can also increase the risk of trips and falls. A podiatrist can assess foot health, recommend supportive footwear, and treat pain or injury caused by improper shoe choices. If you are experiencing foot discomfort from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on appropriate flip-flop choices.

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 ABC Podiatry. 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 our office located in Columbus, OH .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cracked heels are a common foot concern where the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thick, and split due to pressure or dehydration. This condition may result from prolonged standing, wearing open-backed footwear, obesity, or skin disorders such as eczema. Risk factors include aging, poor hydration, and medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues. Symptoms often involve dry, rough skin with visible cracks, discomfort, and sometimes bleeding or infection. A podiatrist can treat cracked heels by removing hardened skin, applying healing treatments, and recommending moisturizers or custom orthotics. If you are experiencing pain or difficulty from dry, split heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for relief and appropriate treatment solutions.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be present from birth or develop over time due to injury, aging, obesity, or certain medical conditions. Symptoms include foot pain, swelling, fatigue, or difficulty standing or walking for long periods. Some people experience knee or back discomfort as well. Relief often comes from wearing supportive shoes, custom orthotics, or stretching exercises. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of your feet, identify the underlying cause, and recommend a personalized treatment plan. If you have flat feet and have persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and improved foot function.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor circulation in the feet occurs when blood flow is restricted, often leading to discomfort, numbness, or a cold feeling. Causes include peripheral artery disease, diabetes, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity. Symptoms of poor circulation include tingling in the feet and toes, swelling, discoloration, or slow-healing wounds. These signs should not be ignored, as they may indicate more serious health conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate circulation, perform diagnostic tests, and recommend treatments such as compression therapy and lifestyle changes. If you experience persistent foot discomfort or signs of poor circulation, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan to improve your foot health and overall well-being.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.