While flip-flops are convenient, wearing them can have negative effects on the feet. Most flip-flops lack proper arch support and cushioning. Prolonged use of flip-flops can lead to issues like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and increased strain on the toes. This is because flip-flops can cause you to put more pressure on the plantar fascia, tissues that run from the toes to the heel. The toes also perform a constant gripping motion to keep flip-flops on, which can cause muscle fatigue and contribute to toe deformities. Additionally, the minimal protection flip-flops offer the feet leave them exposed to the elements, increasing the risk of injuries, sunburn, and infections. If you are experiencing foot pain from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can rule out any other causes and discuss alternative footwear. 

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY .  We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Every day, foot pain affects millions of people worldwide, ranging from dull aches to sharp stings. Some experience foot pain solely at night, disrupting their sleep quality. One common cause is plantar fasciitis, where the tissue running from the foot's front through the arch to the heel becomes inflamed, often worsened by factors like flat feet or tight calf muscles. Another foot pain culprit is Morton’s neuroma, which is characterized by pinching or inflammation around the nerves in your toes and can lead to burning or shooting pains. Pregnancy-related changes in calcium levels may cause leg and foot cramps. Diabetes can damage foot nerves due to high blood sugar levels. Fibromyalgia sufferers often experience widespread pain, including in the feet, exacerbated at night by low cortisol levels. Lifestyle factors and foot anatomy also contribute to nighttime foot pain. If you are experiencing persistent nighttime foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Maintaining healthy and strong feet is essential for overall well-being and mobility. Incorporating regular stretching exercises into your routine can help improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and prevent common foot issues. Toe stretches, such as toe flexion and extension, help stretch the muscles and ligaments in the toes, promoting better mobility and preventing conditions like plantar fasciitis. Calf stretches, like the calf raise and wall stretch, target the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, reducing tightness and improving range of motion in the ankles and feet. Arch stretches, such as the towel stretch and golf ball roll, can alleviate discomfort and strengthen the arches of the feet, reducing the risk of conditions like flat feet. Additionally, performing ankle circles and ankle alphabet exercises can help improve ankle stability and mobility, enhancing overall foot function. If you would like information about additional specific foot stretches to practice for healthy, strong feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flatfoot occurs when the arches of the feet are low or even touch the ground. While many people with flatfoot don’t experience major foot problems, the altered biomechanics of the foot can lead to foot pain and gait issues. Collapsed arches can strain the ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support the foot's structure. This strain is what may lead to pain, particularly in the arch area and the inner side of the ankle. This pain can even extend to the knee or lower back. Individuals with flat feet may experience pain during prolonged periods of standing or walking. The absence of a natural arch can also affect shock absorption, increasing the force on joints and potentially causing discomfort. Podiatrists can recommend supportive footwear, shoe inserts, and targeted exercises to strengthen the foot muscles. If you have foot pain and flat feet, it is suggested you consult with a podiatrist who can locate the source of your pain and provide a customized treatment plan to improve your foot health.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Nassau Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oceanside, Franklin Square, and East Norwich, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.