Wearing sandals is hard on your feet. They deserve some TLC.
Wearing sandals can be a comfortable choice during warmer months, offering breathability and freedom for the feet. However, excessive or prolonged use of sandals can lead to several issues detrimental to foot health.
Firstly, most sandals lack proper arch support, which can result in flat feet or exacerbate existing arch problems. The lack of support can also contribute to overpronation or supination, leading to discomfort and even injury over time.
Additionally, wearing sandals alters the natural biomechanics of walking, as the toes often grip the shoe to keep it in place. This can lead to muscle fatigue, toe deformities, and even issues with balance and stability.
While occasional use of sandals is generally harmless, relying on them as daily footwear may compromise foot health in the long run. It's important to alternate between supportive shoes and sandals to maintain proper foot alignment and minimize the risk of discomfort or injury
How to minimize the risk of developing angry feet.
Self-massage
Using a ball or foam roller is a great way to release built-up tension in your feet.
To foam roll your feet, sit on the floor with the foam roller beneath one foot. Apply gentle pressure and roll the foot from heel to toe, focusing on the arch and ball of the foot. Spend extra time on any tender spots or areas of tightness (approximately 60-90 seconds). Repeat on the other foot. Avoid rolling directly over bones or joints.
Stretching
Long static stretching can help relax tight muscles in your feet and lower leg.
To stretch your feet, sit comfortably and extend your legs in front of you. Point your toes forward and then flex them back towards your shin, feeling the stretch in your calf and the bottom of your foot. Hold for 60-90 seconds, then release. Next, interlace your fingers between your toes and gently pull them back towards your shin to stretch the toes and the top of the foot. You can stretch both feet at the same time or individually. These stretches can improve flexibility and relieve tension in the feet.
Massage Therapy
Come in for a massage and let us do the work for you!
Applying massage therapy to the feet offers a soothing release for tense muscles in both the feet and lower legs. Whether you're grappling with acute foot discomfort such as plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, arthritis, or tendinopathy, regular massage therapy can provide targeted relief, easing symptoms and restoring your mobility. Your Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) can also equip you with a tailored homecare routine, empowering you to strengthen muscles and maintain the resilience and agility of your feet.
We are a multidisciplinary clinic located in Kitsilano near Broadway and Arbutus, offering a range of services including Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, and Reiki.
We would like to acknowledge that we live and work in Vancouver and Kitsilano which is located on traditional Coast Salish territory. The land that is currently known as Kitsilano has been shared by the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Watuth) peoples since time immemorial.