Why Do My Feet Hurt More in the Summer?

Flip flops are common footwear that most people grab out of convenience in the summer. They easily slide on, can be worn to the beach, or with any outfit. However, with the convenience of flip flops, you do not have the proper comfort or support needed. Flip flops are usually made of thin rubber with no arch support. This design does not accommodate for the weight of an individual and there are no shock absorbing properties to help eliminate the stress and strain on your body’s joints. With the thin rubber design of flip flops you run the risk of stubbing your toes, losing your footing, slipping, or stepping on a sharp object which could go through the rubber sole. 

Driving poses its own risks as you could have your flip flop get stuck, slide off your foot or get lodged under the pedals. Flip flops do not have a proper supporting footbed to correctly position your foot and you are more likely to pronate. With pronation your feet collapse inward and there is additional strain on the joints in your lower body. Walking for prolonged periods in pronation can lead to pulling and straining of the muscles and ligaments which cause knee pain, foot pain, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints. In addition to pronating while walking, studies have shown that your strides are shorter and people do not lift their feet as much as if they were in proper footwear. 

Other options for summer footwear which will provide better support include:

• Running shoes 
• Supportive sandals – Birkenstock, Vionic, Teva, Chaco, Biotime, Rieker, Portofino 

If you have any questions regarding your footwear or would like to discuss things further, please feel free to call our office and book an appointment with one of our orthotists.

 

The Custom Orthotics Team (519) 850-4721 | office@customorthoticsoflondon.com | @cool_bracing