Flip-flops are a popular choice for warm weather due to their ease of wear and variety of designs and colors. Compared to slides, flip-flops often provide less stability and support, which can make them more uncomfortable for prolonged use. While slides offer slightly better coverage and support, both types of footwear can contribute to foot problems when worn frequently. Common drawbacks of flip-flops include lack of proper arch support, minimal cushioning, and increased risk of blisters, heel pain, or plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can evaluate your footwear habits, recommend supportive alternatives, and provide treatments to address foot pain or prevent long-term issues. If you are experiencing discomfort from wearing flip-flops or slides, or have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions,  and guide you on similar and appropriate shoes to wear.

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 Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. 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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Risk factors include wearing tight or narrow shoes, improper toenail trimming, genetic predisposition, and injury to the nail. Causes often involve repeated pressure, trauma, or abnormal nail shape. In severe or recurring cases, a podiatrist may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part or all of the affected nail and prevent regrowth in the problem area. This type of doctor can also provide guidance on proper nail care, footwear, and preventive measures. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, in the feet is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks joint tissues, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, joint deformities, and difficulty walking. Causes are linked to immune system dysfunction, while risk factors include genetics and smoking. Over time, RA can damage cartilage and bone, leading to loss of mobility and chronic discomfort. A podiatrist can help by managing symptoms with custom orthotics, supportive footwear, and joint protection strategies. They can also provide advice on exercises to maintain flexibility. If foot pain or stiffness from RA is affecting daily life, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief and management tips.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

Poor foot circulation occurs when blood flow to the feet is reduced, often due to conditions like peripheral artery disease, diabetes, or blood clots. Causes include smoking, sedentary lifestyle, high cholesterol, and vascular disease. Risk factors involve aging, obesity, and a family history of circulatory problems. Symptoms may include cold feet, numbness, tingling, swelling, cramping, or skin color changes. Without proper care, poor circulation can lead to wounds that heal slowly or serious complications. A podiatrist can assess circulation, provide treatments to improve blood flow, and recommend lifestyle changes. If you notice persistent changes in your feet or have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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