As soon as the snow melts and the flowers start to bloom, many Canadians pull out their flip flops. It’s a way to rejoice at the end of the snow season, to kick off those socks and bring on the sun, beaches and summer.
Flip flops were never designed to be worn long term, for some that means 6 months of the year.
Some would say, I don’t wear the same ones, I have many styles and colors to choose from!
Unless you are wearing Merrells or berks or any other sandal with support, you should know a few things about your beloved shoes.
Flip flops are known for lack of support. That lack of arch support can stretch and strain the fascia, a sheet of tissue that connects your bone to the base of your toes and be the cause of Plantar fasciitis, left untreated can cause Bone spurs or serious arch and heel pain.
Naturally the toes curl to hang on to your flip flops. This stretching of the nerves and tendons can cause tendonitis. If the feet are thrown off, serious pain can then be felt in the Knees, the hips and eventually the back. With 26 little bones in the feet, it is very important to take care of your feet.
While bare feet love fresh air and grass and a chance to show off that latest pedicure, they can also be exposed to bacteria, viral and fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Flip flops should be washed daily with soap and water to avoid any of these.
Flip flops are generally made with cheap plastic, that is why you can have them in every color of the rainbow. Just note that there are some toxins in the plastic that have been linked back to various cancers. Ensure your shoes have leather soles and straps.
Your feet can tell a lot about hidden health problems. If over the summer you noticed that you have unexplained knee, hip or back pain; go back and notice what you were wearing on your feet.
Were they loose? Did they offer any support? Were they made of leather? Did they have straps?
If you answered no to any of those questions and are still experiencing pain in the feet, knees, hips and back; then make sure to book a Reflexology session to give those feet much needed rest and help prevent any long-term effects.
For more information on the benefits of Reflexology, visit www.angelhandshealing.com
**Disclaimer This article is not intended to be used for replacement of your medical doctor but rather informational purposes only.