Everyone's health

Podiatrists need new Mercedes too

Ah, summer, when our toes wiggle free. We show them off in fun flip-flops, sexy sandals, playful platforms and whimsical wedges. Ouch! Just turned an ankle? Rubbed a blister on your big toe?

No, no, no, we're not going to say you shouldn't wear those fun summer shoes. But Naomi Shields, a Wichita, Kan., orthopedic surgeon, and Wichita Clinic podiatrist Joe Lickteig say there are some things you should be aware of. Here's the list:

Flip-flops

  Potential hazards:

    Dry, cracked heels because of the exposure to air.

    Lack of support, especially for people with flat feet or other foot problems.

    Injured toes, if something's dropped on them.

    Sunburned feet.

    Increased risk of foot infection in people with diabetes.

  Reduce your risks:

    Use sunscreen on the top of your foot.

    Watch for irritation between toes.

    Treat your heels to some extra attention.

    Don't let toe or heel hang over the edge.

    Look for shoes made of natural materials that have some give.

Platforms

  Potential hazards:

    Sprains or broken ankles.

    Extra pressure on the ball of your foot.

    Tightened calf muscles.

    Inflammation from the pressure, particularly under your second toe.

    Can aggravate Morton's neuroma, an enlarged nerve between the third and fourth toes.

  Reduce your risks:

    Switch to a lower heel and stretch on a regular basis.

    The thicker, stiffer sole actually can be more comfortable than a flexible shoe if you
    have arthritis or similar problems – and are careful.

Wedge heels

  Potential hazards:

    The higher the wedge, the greater the chance of sprains or broken ankles.

    Tightened calf muscles.

    Extra pressure on the ball of your foot.

    Inflammation from the pressure, particularly under your second toe.

    Knee and back pain because the high wedges change your body's alignment.

  Reduce your risks:

    Stretch your calf muscles regularly.

    Change your heel height regularly.

    Select shoes with lower and wider heels when possible.

Spike and stiletto heels

  Potential hazards:

    The higher the heel, the greater the risk of sprains and broken ankles.

    Increased pressure on the ball of your foot.

    Changed body mechanics, with more load on your back.

    Inflammation on the ball of your foot.

  Reduce your risks:

    Stretch your calf muscles regularly.

    Change your heel height regularly.

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