Important Do’s And Don’ts to Avoid a Summer “Flip-Flop Fiasco”

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FitFlop is just one company with a footwear product bearing the APMA's Seal of Acceptance.

Just because a flip-flop has a fun look does not mean it is healthy for your feet. As a general rule, most flip-flops on the market should not be worn excessively during the day. Wearing them in moderation is key.

Bethesda, MD (Vocus) May 12, 2010

The heat of summer is rapidly approaching, and feet everywhere are happily stepping out into warm, sunny weather. Flip-flops, a summer clothing staple for many, have again walked their way off of the beach and into our day-to-day lives. However, opting for the wrong pair of this carefree kind of footwear can lead to blisters, tendinitis and other foot problems. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) urges consumers to think before buying to avoid falling victim to a “flip-flop fiasco.”

“Just because a flip-flop has a fun look does not mean it is healthy for your feet,” said APMA President and podiatrist Dr. Kathleen Stone. “As a general rule, most flip-flops on the market should not be worn excessively during the day. Wearing them in moderation is key.”

Lack of support in a flip-flop can leave the wearer susceptible to sprained ankles and ligament injuries, and the limited protection offered to feet can mean a higher chance of cuts, scrapes and stubbed toes. The following APMA flip-flop “do’s” and “don’ts” will keep consumers from falling victim to flip-flop related foot problems this summer:

•     Do gently bend a flip-flop from end to end, ensuring it bends at the ball of the foot. Flip-flops of any kind should never fold in half.
•     Do look for the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance on flip-flops. Many companies, such as FitFlop, Chaco, and Orthaheel, have certain flip-flops or sandals that have been awarded the APMA’s Seal of Acceptance for demonstrating proper support. For a full list of all APMA Accepted flip-flops, click here.
•     Don’t re-wear flip-flops year after year. Inspect older pairs for wear. If severe signs of wear are found, discard them.
•     Don’t wear flip-flops if you have diabetes, as the footwear leaves feet susceptible to cuts and scrapes that may lead to serious injury. Instead, opt for lightweight footwear that covers and protects the toes.

For more flip-flop tips, visit http://www.apma.org/flipfloptips.

Founded in 1912, the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) is the nation's leading and recognized professional organization for doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs). DPMs are podiatric physicians and surgeons, also known as podiatrists, qualified by their education, training and experience to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and structures of the leg. The medical education and training of a DPM includes four years of undergraduate education, four years of graduate education at an accredited podiatric medical college and two or three years of hospital residency training. APMA has 53 state component locations across the United States and its territories, with a membership of close to 12,000 podiatrists. All practicing APMA members are licensed by the state in which they practice podiatric medicine. For more information, visit http://www.apma.org.

Editors’ Note: APMA-accepted flip-flops are available for use, as well as an expert podiatrist for interview.

Contacts: Mike Kulick
301.581.9220
mskulick (at) apma (dot) org

Angela Berard
301.581.9227                        
ahberard (at) apma (dot) org        

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