Flip-flops are a beloved summer staple for their casual comfort and easy style, but they also bring hidden dangers to your feet. One of the primary risks is a lack of arch support. These flat sandals offer minimal to no arch support, which can lead to problems such as arch pain and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, the constant gripping motion required to keep flip-flops on can strain the tendons in your feet and result in discomfort. Flip-flops can also leave your feet exposed to injury. Without adequate protection, you may be vulnerable to stubbed toes, cuts, and scrapes from sharp objects or tripping on uneven terrain. The open design can also expose your feet to sunburn, which can be painful and damaging. Furthermore, the lack of ankle support can increase the risk of sprains and other injuries, especially if you are walking on uneven surfaces or participating in physical activities. While wearing flip-flops may be suitable for quick trips to the beach or pool, it is essential to prioritize proper footwear for extended walks or activities that require support and protection for your feet. It is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful information about the potential dangers of frequently wearing flip-flops.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Bradley Olson, DPM from North Dakota. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fargo and Wahpeton, ND . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many women wear high heels, which can lead to numbness in the toes. This common symptom is often overlooked, but it is essential to understand the potential consequences of wearing high-heeled shoes. The primary cause of toe numbness from wearing high heels is the pressure placed on the ball of the foot. As you elevate your heel, your body's weight shifts forward, concentrating the load on a small area. This excess force can compress nerves and blood vessels, and the resulting reduction in blood flow to the front of the foot can cause toes to go numb. Over time, this restricted blood flow can lead to numbness and tingling sensations, making each step more troublesome. Additionally, the unnatural arch in high heels can strain the muscles and ligaments, which adds to the problem. To minimize numbness in the toes, opt for lower heel heights, wear cushioned insoles, and take regular breaks from wearing high heels. If you are experiencing numbness in the toes and feet, which may be the result of wearing high heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Bradley Olson, DPM from North Dakota. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fargo and Wahpeton, ND . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Our feet bear the weight of our daily activities, often without getting the attention they truly deserve. Incorporating an everyday foot care routine into your daily life can help keep your feet healthy. This can begin by cleansing your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, ensuring they are thoroughly dried, and paying special attention to the spaces between your toes. Moisturizing your feet with a hydrating lotion can help to prevent dryness and cracking, and trimming your toenails straight across is necessary to avoid ingrown nails. Wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes that have adequate arch support is crucial in maintaining foot health. Additionally, it is beneficial to rest your feet by taking short breaks to stretch and wiggle your toes during the day. Lastly, inspect your feet regularly for any signs of blisters, calluses, or changes in color or texture. By incorporating these simple habits into your daily routine, you can enjoy healthy feet that support you throughout your life. If you would like more information about other foot care tips, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Bradley Olson, DPM from North Dakota. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fargo and Wahpeton, ND . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken toe, though seemingly minor, can cause significant pain and disruption to daily life. The types and causes of these kinds of fractures encompass a range of scenarios. First, a common cause of a broken toe can happen when the toe is stubbed against a hard surface, and is often classified as a traumatic break. Second, stress fractures, which can result from repetitive impact, can occur, particularly in athletes or people who engage in rigorous physical activities. Fractures due to osteoporosis may also cause a broken toe, especially in the elderly. Vigorous activities, accidents, falls, and even dropping heavy objects onto the foot are common triggers for toe fractures. Recognizing the types and understanding the causes of broken toes is vital in seeking timely medical attention and implementing precautionary measures to prevent these painful disruptions. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose toe fractures and guide you toward the treatment method that is correct for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Bradley Olson, DPM from North Dakota. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fargo and Wahpeton, ND . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.