Health experts have sent a stern warning to Australians preparing for a summer holiday in Europe to reconsider their footwear choices this year.
And it’s bad news for anyone who’s a fan of Jellies, trendy sandals, flip flops, or any type of poorly structured flat shoe.
Sydney podiatrist Dr Sean Fitzpatrick spoke to FEMAIL and warned Australians travelling to Europe to also stay away from thong brands such as Havianas as they will “put a greater workload on the foot and therefore increase the potential for fatigue and pain”.
This can lead to long-term foot and lower leg problems such as joint tightness, severe pain, Achilles tendon problems, plantar fasciitis, tightness and pain in the lower back, knee or the hip.
The resurgence of Jelly shoes, which were created in France in 1946 and became popular in the ’90s, are not ideal for tourists, especially if tourists plan to walk a lot.
Not only do they not provide support, they can also become uncomfortable after long periods of use and offer little to no support for important foot mechanics.
The PVC often used to make footwear can also cause blisters and even fungal and bacterial infections in hot weather.
“Jelly shoes are not something that is endorsed or recommended by a podiatrist; a more reasonable alternative is Birkenstocks,” Dr. Fitzpatrick said.
‘From a podiatrist’s point of view, Jelly shoes are not something that is endorsed or recommended by a podiatrist. “A more reasonable alternative is a Birkenstock,” Dr. Fitzpatrick said.
Dr. Fitzpatrick regularly treats people for musculoskeletal injuries that can result from improper footwear.
However, he recommends Brooks Glycerin and Adrenaline or Asics Kayano shoes to his patients as the best solid shoes for walking or running on vacation.
“For trendier options on days when walking or walking is less vigorous, brands like Frankie4, Bared and Department of Finery are great,” she added.
“It is recommended that all shoes be tried on before purchasing to reduce the risk of potential fit problems such as blisters, calluses or corns,” said Dr. Fitzpatrick.
Department of Gala Studies is the brainchild of Melbourne designer Melissa Butera.
Butera’s “continuous stream of Italian design nostalgia” is reflected throughout its footwear collections, making them a modern, supportive footwear option with a distinctly European sensibility.
Once you have the right shoes, you should also make sure that they are still in good walking condition by checking them for signs of wear and tear.
New shoes should be well worn in before being subjected to the added activity of a busy vacation.
Dr. Fitzpatrick recommends Melbourne-based Department of Finery Studio shoes as a good “fashionable” option for days when you won’t be walking as much.
Dr. Fitzpatrick also warns those who intend to go barefoot.
“It’s fine to walk barefoot for short periods, however, if you’re going sightseeing, it’s highly recommended to wear shoes that provide good support,” she said.
Sydney Podiatrist regularly treats people for musculoskeletal injuries that can result from inappropriate footwear, such as plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma and Achilles tendonitis.
“We use a Zebris treadmill with strength analysis that accurately assesses each individual’s movement patterns. This allows us to identify any underlying mechanical problems or weaknesses,” the doctor explained.
‘For treatment we offer shock wave therapy, high power laser, dry needling, as well as orthotics and strengthening advice.’
Dr. Fitzpatrick also recommended packing a tennis ball and rolling it on the soles of your feet.
Dr Fitzpatrick said thongs like Havianas will put more workload on the foot and therefore increase the potential for “fatigue and pain”.
Travelers have been sharing their own foot pain solutions on Reddit, and many agree that a humble tennis ball is ideal, as it’s light to pack and useful for massaging tense spots on the bottom of your foot.
Others mentioned that a tennis ball can also help relieve shoulder and back pain that comes from long flights, carrying heavy bags, and sleeping in different beds.
Simply place the ball under any tight spot and drop your body weight onto it for effective muscle release.
Practicing a “single legs up the wall” yoga pose at the end of a busy day of sightseeing can further help relieve travelers’ tired legs and swollen feet.
Those who want to show off their new Jelly shoes in Europe this summer should not despair.
You can still pack the less practical shoes and simply limit the amount of time you wear them, try not to walk too much when you have them on, and have more comfortable and practical alternatives to wear afterwards.