PODIATRIST DISCUSSES BAREFOOT WALKING AND FOOT TYPES

While there are some benefits to walking barefoot, certain factors such as a person's foot type, the time they spend standing, and the type of surface they're standing or walking on can make it not so healthy, says Robert Kornfeld, DPM. There are two common foot-type classifications: rigid and flexible. People with rigid foot types have less of a problem walking barefoot on grass, carpet, or other soft surfaces; whereas people with flexible feet function better on harder surfaces, like wood or tile, he explains. 

 

Dr. Robert Kornfeld

 

"If the foot is pushed past its physiologic limits, then cellular injury can occur," Dr. Kornfeld says. Generally, a primary inflammation pathway in the body helps to repair and replace injured or dead cells. If the injury persists or the pathway is ineffective, it may lead to chronic inflammation and pain in the foot, Kornfeld explains. Older adults or people with compromised immune systems from poor diet, dehydration, inadequate sleep, stress, parasites, or digestive orders are at a higher risk of chronic pain syndromes, he adds.

 

Source: Abby Moore, mbghealth [10/22/20]

Courtesy of Barry Block, editor of PM News