Warmer days are ahead, and that means sandals and flip-flops season for a lot of people. Before you stock up on your new spring and summer shoes, remember the importance of your foot health and preventing foot-related injuries.

Issues may arise if you wear flop-flops too long or for the wrong activity because they don’t offer any arch or heel support. That’s definitely not a good thing if you have flat feet. Flips-flops are also blamed for blisters, infections, bad posture and can affect bunions. It’s also not a genius idea to wear flip-flops while driving. One bad scenario would be your flip-flops slipping off your feet and getting stuck under the brake or gas pedal, so safety for yourself and other drivers should be a priority!

If you’re going to purchase flip-flops for short-term use, consider buying a pair that fits properly, provides arch support, and allows you to get much use out of them. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), flip-flops and shoes of any kind should never fold in half. Your flip-flops should bend at the ball of the foot. High quality, soft leather flip-flops also are a great option. Leather decreases the chance of getting a blister and other types of irritation. If you are diabetic, it is recommended that you don’t wear flip-flops but wear proper shoes that fit well and protect your feet. If you have nerve damage, you may not feel a blister, which can lead to infection and amputation.

Replace your flip-flops every few months because a lot of wear-and-tear is dangerous. They offer little or no protection against broken glass and other debris. The APMA also recommends that you not wear flip-flops while doing yard work and protect yourself from foot infections by wearing a sturdy pair of flip-flops when walking around a public pool, at the beach, in hotel rooms and in locker room areas. Any irritation between your toes should not be ignored due to the possibility of developing blisters or infections. Check your feet daily, and contact your doctor about any changes such as swelling, a cut that doesn’t heal, pain that doesn’t go away, sores, swelling or signs of infection. Most importantly, keep your feet clean and moisturized!

Whether it’s a special ointment prescribed by a doctor or you need over-the-counter creams and lotions to aid in your foot health, Carmichael’s Cashway Retail and Compounding Pharmacies in Crowley are here for you every step of the way.