Our Feet Are Our Foundation-The Right Flip Flops Make A Difference

Saturday, August 7th, 2010

We’ve always been told flip-flops were bad for our feet. However, during the summer months, millions of Americans insist on wearing them. Seeing the serious need for an open toe summer shoe that also provides both support and stability, Spenco Medical has created the Total Support Sandal—addressing physicians’ concerns by combining features of a top selling  replacement insole, the PolySorb Total Support Insoles, with the comfort of a slip-on sandal.

Everyone will agree that flip flops offer a certain level of convenience.  How easy is it to just slip your foot into a pair of sandals rather than lace up a pair of shoes?  Then add in that shoes are mostly worn with socks and the slip in Flip Flops look that much more inviting.  And everyone will agree that the $10-15 price tag for a pair of typical flip flops is a pretty good deal when you consider they are worn almost anywhere and almost all the time by lots of people and as often as possible by millions more.  But, this convenience and low price comes with an additional cost.

Larry R Montgomery, D.C. says, “not only do flip flops cause pain, but I think the real issue is that it makes the joints above the foot more susceptible to injury because they are not supported in the proper position.”   What doctor Montgomery states is so true.  The health of our body stems from the health of our feet.  After all, the feet are the foundation on which we stand, walk and carry our body weight.  Feet that are not properly aligned will cause joints such as ankles, knees, hips and the back to all move out of alignment in an attempt to compensate.  This results in pain to our joints and to our feet.

Regular flip flops an bring on the development of tendonitis to plantar fasciitis to pain in our ankles, knees, hips and back.  Stephen Palmer, DPM, sports medicine specialist, states, “a typical flip flop is essentially a flat piece of foam. Without proper support any condition is going to be magnified.”

Both doctor Montgomery and doctor Palmer agree that little can be done to get patients out of flip flops but what can be done is to educate patients to look for flip flops that have certain features built in.  Features such as a slightly elevated heel, proper cushioning that will not break down, and a contoured arch support.  These things will help provide the stability and support the feet need. Proper foot support will go a long way in supporting the body and joints that would otherwise struggle to maintain correct alignment.

The Spenco Polysorb Total Support Sandals have all of those features and more. The deep heel cup gives superior cushioning comfort on a slightly raised heel.  The arch support is contoured for a perfect fit, the metatarsal pad helps to support the forefoot region and prevent metatarsalgia or other problems that can occur in the forefoot and toe area.  The straps are designed to offer support and fit to comfortably hold the Sandal in place as we step.  The Sandals are extremely durable and carry a one year unconditional guarantee.

So go ahead, do not be afraid to jump into those convenient, comfortable Sandals.  Just be sure the ones you jump into offer the support you need to keep your feet and body healthy.

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