Last week we talked about celebrities having issues with their high heels, and how you can stay safe yet fashionable in your upcoming formal summer events. But high heels weren’t the only thing showing up on the red carpet this year, another source of foot pain appeared in the form of flats. Celebs such as Kate Moss, Victoria Beckham, Dita Von Teese, Taylor Swift, and Emma Watson have been seen recently sporting flat shoes everywhere from the grocery store to the most fashionable gatherings.
While flats may be easy to slip on – the damage the can create with repetitive use may not be so easy to shake off. Shoes with flat and thin soles can cause problems ranging from stubbed toes and cuts, to overuse injuries such as stress fractures and plantar fasciitis. As a seasoned podiatrist in Bowie and Annapolis, it is not uncommon for me to see at least one patient with a flip-flop related injury daily throughout the summer months. Generally speaking, people with flatter arches are more susceptible to overuse injuries because they need more support for their bodies. Flats and flip flops simply don’t provide enough support to absorb the forces of walking.
While excessive use of flats and flip-flops can cause many problems, moderate use is typically handled well, especially if only used periodically in combination with other shoe types. However, if you start to feel problems from your footwear, make an appointment with your local podiatrist. If you’re in the greater Annapolis area, I invite you to drop by my office at Crofton Podiatry. We can talk about the reasons why you’re experiencing issues, and the options available to best relieve your pain. Remember – the best way to enjoy your upcoming summer is on your feet!
By Brad Toll.