DECATUR - As people flock to the great outdoors for summer amusement, the American Podiatric Medical Association is issuing a warning that wearing the wrong footwear can make that fun flop.

Flip-flops, the shoe staple of college students and beachcombers alike, can mean serious foot problems if not worn properly or if the wrong type is worn.

The APMA offered a series of flip-flop tips in a recent news release to help take care of tootsies.

The association urged consumers to shop for high-quality flip-flops made of soft leather, which can minimize a person's chances of getting irritation or blisters from the straps.

Some types of flip-flops hold the APMA's Seal of Acceptance. These shoes are evaluated by podiatrists belonging to the organization and promote good foot function, the release stated.

When shopping for flip-flops, podiatrists advise that consumers should attempt to bend the flip-flop from end to end to make sure the location of the bend hits the ball of the foot and the shoe doesn't fold all the way in half. Make sure your foot doesn't hang off the edge, podiatrists advised.

Flip-flops shouldn't be worn during sporting activities, yard work or for walking long distances, as they offer the foot no protection, arch support or a way to prevent twisting injuries, the release stated.

The organization advised against wearing that well-worn pair of flip-flops you've had forever. Those pairs showing signs of wear should be discarded, or at least retired from use.

If irritation develops between the toes, take a break to let it heal, as raw spots could lead to possible infections.

A good pair of flip-flops can be worn around public pools, beaches or in hotel or locker rooms to prevent plantar warts and athlete's foot, podiatrists advised.