Flip-flops are popular because they are lightweight and easy to wear. However, their simple design may affect how the feet move during walking. Many flip-flops have thin, flexible soles and little support around the heel. Unlike shoes that stay securely attached to the foot, flip-flops often require the toes to grip the sole with each step. This gripping action may change normal walking patterns and increase the work performed by certain foot muscles. Some people also take shorter steps or adjust their stride while wearing them. Although flip-flops may feel comfortable for brief periods, frequent use may place additional demands on the feet. Understanding how this type of footwear influences movement helps explain why shoe choice matters for foot health.

The effects of flip-flops vary depending on their design, how long they are worn, and the individual's foot structure. Limited cushioning may leave the heel less protected from repeated impact on hard surfaces. A lack of arch support may contribute to discomfort in people whose feet need additional stability. Because flip-flops do not hold the heel firmly, the foot may shift while walking, especially on uneven ground. This movement may affect balance and make it easier to stumble. Some individuals notice soreness in the toes or along the bottom of the foot after wearing flip-flops for extended periods. Others experience heel pain or fatigue during activities that involve considerable walking. These symptoms do not occur in everyone, and different flip-flop designs may affect movement differently. Still, persistent discomfort may signal that the footwear is not providing enough support for a person's needs.

A podiatrist evaluates foot pain associated with wearing flip-flops by examining foot alignment, walking patterns, and areas of tenderness. The examination may reveal whether the toes are working excessively to keep footwear in place or whether limited support contributes to discomfort. Podiatric care includes recommendations for footwear with a secure fit, appropriate cushioning, and better stability. When symptoms involve the arch or heel, a podiatrist assesses the underlying structures and develops a treatment plan based on the findings. The goal is to improve comfort while reducing strain during everyday movement. Footwear recommendations depend on the individual's foot shape and activity demands rather than appearance alone. If you are experiencing recurring foot pain or walking discomfort related to wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Deann Hofer Ogilvie, DPM from Ascend Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioner will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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

Congenital foot problems are differences in the structure, function, or appearance of a child’s foot that are present at birth. These deformities can range from mild to severe and may affect mobility as a child grows. They can involve the bones, muscles, or tendons of the foot. Common examples include clubfoot, webbed toes, and cleft foot. Clubfoot causes the foot to point downward and inward. Webbed toes occur when two or more toes are joined by skin, tissue, or bone. Some congenital foot deformities develop because of genetic factors, while others may be related to development or positioning in the womb.

The effects of congenital foot deformities vary depending on the type and severity. Diagnosis often begins with a physical examination after birth, although certain deformities can be identified during a prenatal ultrasound. Imaging may also be used to examine the bones and joints. Some children have little or no difficulty with walking, while other conditions can interfere with comfortable movement. Clubfoot may affect one or both feet and can cause long-term mobility problems without treatment. Cleft foot is a rare deformity that creates an abnormal split in the middle of the foot and may involve missing toes.  

A podiatrist can evaluate a child’s foot structure and help determine how a congenital deformity may affect movement and development. Treatment depends on the specific condition and its severity. Orthotic devices, specialized footwear, or other professional care may be recommended to improve alignment and function. Some children may require surgery when a deformity significantly affects mobility or comfort. Early evaluation can help create an appropriate treatment plan as the child grows and their needs change. The goal of care is to support comfortable walking. If your child has a congenital foot problem that may be affecting movement or development, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Deann Hofer Ogilvie, DPM of Ascend Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Ankle bursitis is inflammation of a small, fluid-filled sac called a bursa. Bursae cushion areas where tissues move against each other. When a bursa around the ankle becomes irritated, swelling and pain can develop. Ankle bursitis may affect the front, back, or sides of the ankle. Symptoms often include tenderness, swelling, and discomfort with walking or ankle movement. Stiffness may also occur, especially after periods of rest or inactivity.

Several factors can contribute to ankle bursitis. Repetitive activities that stress the ankle can irritate a bursa. Running, jumping, and prolonged standing can increase irritation. Wearing tight footwear can create pressure and rubbing around the ankle. An injury, such as a direct blow or repeated minor trauma, can trigger inflammation. Arthritis and other joint problems may increase irritation around the bursa. Risk factors include high-impact activity, wearing poorly-fitting shoes, previous ankle injuries, and jobs requiring prolonged standing.

A podiatrist can evaluate ankle pain and determine whether bursitis is causing the symptoms. The examination may include checking swelling, tenderness, and walking mechanics. Imaging tests may be recommended when an injury or another condition needs to be ruled out. Treatment depends on the cause and severity. A podiatrist may recommend activity changes, wearing supportive footwear, or medication to control inflammation and ankle discomfort. If needed, drainage of excess fluid or an injection may be considered. Treating an underlying problem can support healing.

Recognizing ankle bursitis early can make it easier to manage discomfort and protect movement. Resting the irritated area and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms may help reduce stress during healing. However, persistent swelling or pain should not be ignored, especially when it affects walking. An evaluation can identify the source and guide care. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat ankle bursitis.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Deann Hofer Ogilvie, DPM from Ascend Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lafayette, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the nearby skin instead of growing forward normally. The big toe is affected most often, although any toenail can become ingrown. At first, the problem may seem minor, especially if discomfort only occurs while wearing shoes. Without proper care, however, an ingrown toenail can become increasingly painful and may lead to an infection. Understanding the early warning signs can help you seek treatment before the problem becomes more difficult to manage.

One of the most common symptoms is pain or tenderness along the side of the affected toe. Pressure from wearing shoes or walking may make the discomfort worse. The skin surrounding the nail can become red, swollen, and sensitive to touch. Some people notice clear fluid, while others may see pus when an infection is present. The toe may also feel warm. These changes are important signs that the nail and surrounding skin need attention.

Several factors can increase the risk of an ingrown toenail. Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight shoes can also place repeated pressure against the toes. Toe injuries, naturally curved nails, and repeated pressure from activities can contribute as well. People who have difficulty caring for their feet should be especially careful because a small nail problem can sometimes progress quickly. Keeping toenails trimmed straight across and wearing properly fitted shoes can help reduce risk.

A podiatrist will examine the affected toe and look for inflammation, infection, or other problems affecting the nail. When needed, the podiatrist may gently lift or separate the nail edge from the skin. More painful or recurring cases may require partial nail removal to prevent the problem from returning. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, which may include minor surgery. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Deann Hofer Ogilvie, DPM of Ascend Foot & Ankle Center. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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