BAREFOOT SHOES ARE NOT FOR EVERYONE

Barefoot shoes are not for everyone's foot type. In a July 2023 interview with Green Matters, Jodi R. Schoenhaus, DPM of Florida's Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center explained, "In a normal or a rectus foot type, walking barefoot allows the small muscles of the foot to become stronger and our feet can 'breathe.'” However, Dr. Schoenhaus then explained that the majority of people do have a normal foot type, meaning that barefoot shoes could cause problems.

 

Dr. Jodi Schoenhaus

 

“People who have flat feet or high arch feet can develop problems as they age. Walking barefoot leads to more strain and impact on the muscles and joints, causing tendinitis, arthritis, and deformity,” Dr. Schoenhaus told Green Matters. Given this, despite the possible benefits of barefoot shoes, it’s not a bad idea to make a visit to the podiatrist before you buy a pair of barefoot shoes, to make sure they won’t do more harm than good.

 

Source: Eva Hogan, Green Matters [11/15/23]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News