My City Wellness Summer 2022

Is the go-to summer shoe good for your feet? Well, that depends …

It’s a summer staple – the ip op. Who can resist stepping into a pair of the ultra convenient, every-color-in-the rainbow, light and airy footwear in the heat of summer? You can nd them to t just about any budget, any style and what better way to show o a pedicure? But is the go-to summer shoe good for your feet? Well, that depends … Some ip- op styles are just like walking barefoot, while others o er substantial support. is year, you’re seeing the “pu y” type (or “slides” as the kids like to call them now.) at extra cushioning provides more protection for the foot, but not necessarily more support. One feature all ip- ops have in common is the open back – a footwear feature that o en makes walking more di cult. e lack of a back portion of the shoe o ers less support around the ankle. For people who have atter feet or a smaller arch, ip- ops can lead to pain in their legs, feet or ankles because the shoes do not provide needed support. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), there are some tips to follow to avoid any flip-flop fiascos: • Choose styles made of so , high-quality leather to avoid blisters and irritation.

• Cushioning: Look for lightweight EVA and

• Gently bend the ip- op end-to-end to make sure it bends at the ball of the foot but does not fold in half. • Make sure your foot doesn’t hang o the edge of the ip- op. • If you’ll be walking in a public place, wear a sturdy style that o ers some protection. • You can get away with a basic pair at the beach, hotel rooms and locker rooms to avoid plantar warts and athlete’s foot. • e toe thong should be comfortable – no rubbing that will create blisters. • Don’t wear ip- ops when walking long distances, doing yard work, or playing sports. • When you see signs of wear, treat yourself to a new pair! Consider buying flip-flops with these features: • Anatomical footbed: Find a ip- op style with a built-in, contoured footbed that can li your arch and o er metatarsal support. Also, nd deep heel cups to cradle the foot.

proprietary foam materials that can offer cushioning to help absorb impact. Plus, the foam is antibacterial and anti-odor. • Thick sole: Pick a low, platform style to put extra shock absorption and protection between the foot and hard surfaces. • Finally, look for flip-flops that hold the APMA Seal of Acceptance. These products are shown to allow for the most normal foot function and promote quality foot health. issues, the Hamilton staff includes a full-time board certified podiatrist, Christine Jarocki, DPM. Dr. Jarocki practices at Hamilton’s North Pointe and Burton clinics. She has additional board certification in wound care and performs consults and surgery at Hurley Medical Center. ® If you are having any foot

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