Summer Footwear May Be Causing Pain.

• Position: SHOES

Warmer weather, longer days, and an increased level of activity during the summer months can lead to painful foot conditions if you are not wearing the proper shoes. Keep your feet pain free while you enjoy fun in the sun with tips from the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society, Rosemont, III.

"Warmer weather usually brings foot problems as people walk barefoot more frequently and wear less supportive footwear," explains surgeon Kirk A. McCullough of Overland Park, Kan.

Adds surgeon Michael C. Greaser of Bellaire, Texas: "In general, flip-flops and sandals provide the foot with very little arch support. As a result, wearing these shoes can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis and may also exacerbate symptoms of flat feet."

Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the heel due to inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. Flatfoot is a condition that "flattens" or lowers the arch of the foot, resulting in...