The foot is a critical organ in locomotion. So often shoes give a foot protection, but no respect.
The human foot has 26 bones; 33 joints, of which 20 are actively articulated (allow extreme pivots); and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Feet provide support, mobility, and balance. “Feet are the foundation of our strength. And like with any body part, when you don’t use it, you lose it,” says American physiologist Jay Dicharry.
Stiff shoes, or those with pointy toes and skinny heels, constrict the feet. The key to healthy feet is letting them do their thing. “If your foot can’t function as intended, up and down, side to side, it will compensate in other ways. This is what leads to injury. And not just to the feet, but to legs, hip and back,” explains American coach Kate Galliett.
Walking in comfortable, flexible shoes or barefoot is essential to happy feet. Without shoes on, flex your feet and toes as a regular practice. As with all exercise: don’t overdo it.
Amanda Loudin, “The strength, mobility and health of your feet is important to your whole body,” The Washington Post (16 February 2020).