If it’s summertime, it must be flip-flop season. Along with swimsuits, shorts, and sunglasses, flip-flops are essential for enjoying the sunshine and warm weather. They’re easy to slip on and wear to the beach, pool, or simply while running errands.

But before you put on your favorite pair of flip-flops, you should know that they could pose some serious health hazards. Here are some of the potential dangers lurking in your flip-flops:.

Injuries from Flip Flops

Flip-flops don’t offer much support or protection for your feet, which means that they can cause a range of injuries. Here are some of the most common ones:.

1. Tendonitis

Wearing flip-flops for long periods can put stress on your Achilles tendon, which can lead to inflammation or even tendonitis. This condition can be painful and can make it difficult to walk or exercise.

2. Sprains and Strains

Because flip-flops don’t offer much support, your feet are more vulnerable to sprains and strains. If you step on uneven terrain or twist your foot while wearing flip-flops, you could easily sprain or strain your ankle.

3. Cuts and Scrapes

Flip-flops leave your feet exposed, which means that you’re more likely to get cuts and scrapes on your feet. If you step on a sharp object or walk on rough terrain, you could easily cut your feet.

4. Blisters

The lack of support and cushioning in flip-flops can cause friction and rubbing on your feet, which can lead to painful blisters. If you wear flip-flops for long periods or walk long distances in them, you’re more likely to develop blisters.

Fungal and Bacterial Infections from Flip Flops

Flip-flops can also put you at risk of fungal and bacterial infections. Here’s why:.

1. Athlete’s Foot

Flip-flops provide a warm, moist environment that’s perfect for fungus to grow, and one of the most common fungal infections that can develop in feet is athlete’s foot. Symptoms include itching, burning, and redness, and the skin may crack and peel.

2. Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can easily spread in warm, humid environments like public showers and pools. Wearing flip-flops in these areas can reduce your risk of catching plantar warts.

3. Staph Infection

The bacteria staphylococcus can thrive in warm, moist environments, which means that flip-flops can be a breeding ground for these bacteria.

If you have a cut or open sore on your foot, staph bacteria can enter your body and cause a potentially dangerous infection.

Flip Flops and Foot Pain

Flip-flops may seem comfortable at first, but they can quickly cause foot pain and discomfort. Here’s how:.

1. Arch Pain

Because flip-flops offer little to no arch support, your feet can become strained and fatigued. This can lead to arch pain, which can make it difficult to stand or walk for long periods.

2. Heel Pain

Flip-flops don’t provide cushioning or shock absorption, which means that they can cause stress on your heels. Over time, this can lead to heel pain and even plantar fasciitis.

3. Toe Pain

Wearing flip-flops can cause your toes to grip and work harder to keep the shoes on, which can lead to toe pain and even hammertoes. The constant gripping can cause the muscles in your toes to become overstretched and painful.

Choosing Safer Flip Flops

While flip-flops may be fashionable and convenient, they’re not the best option for everyday wear. If you must wear flip-flops, here are some tips to help you choose safer ones:.

1. Look for Good Quality

Choose flip-flops made from high-quality materials that can offer some support and cushioning. Avoid cheap, plastic flip-flops that can cause blisters and are uncomfortable to wear.

2. Check for Fit

Make sure that your flip-flops fit well and don’t slide around on your feet. Choose flip-flops that have straps that fit snugly around your toes and instep to prevent your feet from slipping around in the shoes.

3. Avoid Wearing Flip-Flops for Long Periods

Try to limit your wear of flip-flops to short periods of time, such as at the beach or pool. If you’re going to be walking long distances, choose shoes that offer more support and cushioning to protect your feet.

The Bottom Line on Flip Flops

While flip-flops may be a summertime staple, they can pose some serious health risks if worn too often or for extended periods. If you must wear flip-flops, make sure to choose high-quality ones that fit well and limit your wear to short periods.

For everyday wear, choose shoes that offer more support and cushioning to protect your feet and prevent foot pain.