Washington, Apr 12 : They're the latest fad, and the coolest footwear in the hot summer season, giving you the much desired casual look, but according to a group of researchers the much-loved flip-flops can lead to serious foot pain if worn for long periods of time.

According to Joel Brook, DPM, podiatrist on the medical staff at Baylor Regional Medical Center at Plano, wearing flip-flops everyday or for hours at a time can walk you right into some big problems.

"They're comfortable, they're easy to wear and easy to get on and off," said Brook.

Brook said that the first sign of its harmful effects is usually pain. In fact, according to podiatrists, frequent flip-flop wearers can suffer arch pain, heel pain, even tendonitis.

"Sometimes it's an acute pain that really stops you in your tracks, and sometimes it's a dull, aching, fatigue-like pain that you feel in your feet and can actually start radiating up your leg," said Brooks.

And the reason behind this problem is lack of support. Your feet in flip-flops lie completely flat.

"If you put yourself in a situation where you're going to spend the entire day walking you need to think about what you're wearing on your feet and flip-flops are not a good idea," said Brooks.

But if you just can't step away from the style Brooks says it's best to buy a pair that's specially designed for comfort.

"A flip-flop or a sandal that is well constructed-that provides good arch support, good cushion and shock absorption in the heel and forefoot-that really can help with some of these symptoms," said Dr. Brooks.

ANI